Vulnerable urged to book spring COVID-19 booster
Torbay residents most at risk of becoming severely ill from COVID-19 are being urged to book their spring booster.
As in previous years, Torbay General Practice (TGP) will be running booster clinics on selected days at the Riviera International Centre. The first three clinics will be on April 20, 21 and 22.
When booking becomes available, patients should arrange an appointment through the national booking service or by calling 119 – not by contacting their GP practice.
Those eligible for the spring COVID-19 vaccine are:
Adults aged 75 and over
Immunosuppressed individuals aged five and over
Older adults who are residents in a care home (the care home team will be in touch with homes to arrange these).
With clinics expected to be busy, patients are advised to book – and people with appointments will have priority over ‘walk-in’ patients. (Keep checking the TGP website and Facebook page to find out when the booking system opens).
COVID-19 continues to infect thousands of people every week and those at highest risk of severe illness should top-up their immunity ahead of the planned autumn booster programme.
Paignton and Brixham PCN manager Nicci Hilson, who is overseeing the Torbay vaccination programme, said: “We want to support our patients to stay well, and encourage everyone who is eligible to make an appointment to get their vaccination this spring.
“Teams from all 10 TGP practices will be staffing the vaccination programme for Torbay again. We have a high population eligible for this booster, so we will be working through the cohorts in age ranges.
“Please don’t contact your practice to book or find out when you will be contacted. Please book your appointment when you receive your letter or text. We look forward to seeing you.”
Professor Wei Shen Lim, Chair of the JCVI’s COVID-19 Committee, said: “Vaccination remains the best way to protect yourself against COVID-19 and the spring booster programme provides an opportunity for those who are at highest risk of severe illness to keep their immunity topped up.
“This year’s spring programme will bridge the gap to the planned booster programme in the autumn, enabling those who are most vulnerable to be well protected throughout the summer.
Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “COVID-19 is still circulating widely, and we have recently seen increases in older people being hospitalised.
“It is important those at highest risk of severe illness do not become complacent and I would encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward once the booster programme starts.”