Last chance for unvaccinated people to get protected against Covid-19

People in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire who have yet to have any form of protection against Covid-19 only have until the end of this month to get vaccinated.

After Friday 30 June, first and second doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, which are needed to build an initial immunity to the virus, will no longer be available.

The spring booster vaccine, which has been offered to older people and those at an increased risk of falling seriously ill from Covid-19, will also be withdrawn after this date.

Going forward, the Covid-19 vaccine will only be offered to targeted groups of people during seasonal vaccination campaigns, such as that which is due to take place in the autumn.

Gill May, Director of Nursing, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “It is fantastic that the vast majority of people in our region now have a good immunity to the Covid-19 virus.

“This strong position means we can now move away from our current vaccination offer, which is open to everybody, and towards one that ensures protection is given at the right time of year to those who need it most.  

“Protecting those who are at risk is incredibly important, and this will become even more so as we approach the autumn and winter months.”

So far, more than two million individual Covid-19 vaccinations have been given out across Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire.

Any person who would like to get protected while the offer of vaccination is still available can arrange their appointment through the National Booking Service, which is available online at www.nhs.uk or over the phone by calling 119.

Alternatively, the vaccine will be available on a drop-in basis at a number of walk-in clinics that are happening in various venues across the region between now and the end of June.

While the full list of walk-in clinics can be seen on the ICB website, some of the venues taking part include the Moonrakers pub in Swindon, Emery Gate Shopping Centre in Chippenham and the Memorial Hall in Royal Wootton Bassett.

People who were eligible for a spring booster vaccine, such as those over the age of 75, will also be able to have another top-up dose in the autumn, which will help keep immunity levels strong during the winter months.

Information on when this next booster will be available, as well as details of how to book an appointment, will be provided directly to those who are eligible later in the year.

More information about the Covid-19 vaccination, including an extensive list of frequently asked questions, can be found at www.bsw.icb.nhs.uk.