Booking open for spring COVID-19 booster

Torbay residents most at risk of becoming severely ill from COVID-19 can now book their spring 2024 booster.

Torbay General Practice (TGP) is running booster clinics on selected days at the Riviera International Centre in Torquay, starting on April 24th.

Patients can make an appointment through the national booking service or by calling 119 – not by contacting their GP practice.

The spring booster is available to:

• Adults aged 75 years and over

• Residents in a care home for older adults

• Anyone classed as immunosuppressed – this includes people having treatment for conditions such as cancer or those with long-term chronic conditions.

Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening, said: “This spring, the NHS is offering the Covid-19 vaccine to those that are at highest risk of getting seriously unwell if they catch the virus.

“Covid-19 can still be very dangerous, particularly for older people and those with a weakened immune system, and over time immunity – either from having the virus or from a previous vaccination – can fade, so it is vital that those who are at higher risk top up their protection.

“If you are aged 75 or over or if you or your child have a weakened immune system, then it is vital that you get your vaccine as soon as possible – you can book quickly and easily through the NHS App, by calling 119, or visiting the NHS website.”

Dr Mary Ramsay, Director of Immunisations at UK Health Security Agency, said: “With COVID-19 still circulating, it’s important those at highest risk who are eligible for the spring vaccine get their jab to help top up their immunity.

“We are still seeing COVID-19 causing hospitalisations and severe illness particularly among older people and those with weakened immune systems and the vaccine provides the best protection – so don’t put it off, if you’re eligible book your appointment as soon as you’re invited by the NHS.”