NHS in Sussex reminds people there is still time to get their COVID-19 vaccinations

The NHS in Sussex is calling for anyone who is now due a COVID-19 vaccination to book theirs and make sure they have the best protection.

Latest figures show that 153,430 of those who are eligible have had their spring or second booster, which is great news.

However, 50,554 are now eligible and are yet to come forward.

With hundreds of appointments available this week, the NHS in Sussex is urging people to book theirs and make sure they have had their top-up ahead of the summer.

People are eligible for the spring or second booster if they are aged 75 and over, are aged 12 years and over and have a weakened immune system or are living in older people’s care homes.

The booster vaccinations have been available since 21 March 2022 and people can book an appointment from three months of the date of their original booster. National guidance says that the best time to receive it is at six months from the date of an original booster.

People can book using the National Booking Service website or by calling 119 to arrange an appointment. Specific visits are being planned to care homes across our communities.

A spokesperson for the Sussex COVID-19 Vaccination Programme said:

“We are delighted that so many people have already come forward for their vaccinations but we would really like more people to have received this important protection.

“It may seem that COVID-19 has gone away but it is still in our communities and we want to make sure our most vulnerable have this extra protection for the coming months.

“By making sure that you have a booster when you are due means that it will cover you over the summer and you have had it ahead of the autumn.

“It is really easy to arrange – you don’t need to wait to be contacted. We have lots of appointments every single day, simply call 119 from 8am to 8pm or visit the National Booking Service online and you will be able to book an appointment close to you.”

The NHS is also calling on family members and friends to make sure their loved ones have received their vaccine if they are due.

The spokesperson continued:

“If you have a family member, friend or neighbour who is over 75 or is immunosuppressed, they are eligible for this extra vaccine. Please encourage them to make the arrangements or help them to book so we can make sure everyone who needs this protection can receive it.

“If anyone has difficulty getting to an appointment, we continue to offer a free transport service to help people to and from their vaccinations. Contact the team by phone on 01444 275 008 from 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday.”

First, second, third and original boosters are also available for anyone who is yet to have theirs.

Booked appointments and walk in sessions are available every day.

People can book by visiting the National Booking Service website or by calling 119.