A spring booster dose of the Covid vaccine will be offered to people at highest risk of severe illness:
- everyone aged 75 and over (you need to have turned 75 on or before 30 June 2023)
- residents in care homes for older adults
- people aged 5 and over who have a weekend immune system
People who have a weakened immune system can include those who had or have:
- a blood cancer, such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma
- an organ, bone marrow or stem cell transplant
- HIV infection at all stages
- a genetic disorder affecting the immune system
- a treatment such as steroid medicine, biological therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- certain medicines that increase your risk of infection, such as azathioprine, dexamethasone, prednisolone, ciclosporin or mycophenolate (depending on your dosage)
- a long-term immunosuppressive treatment for conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, scleroderma and psoriasis
This list is a summary and does not cover everything. There are other health conditions and treatments that may mean you have a weakened immune system. If you’re unsure, speak to a pharmacist, GP or your specialist for advice.
How to get your spring booster
If you’re eligible, you can get a booster dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by:
- going to a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site. Walk-in Clinic available on Sundays at Dipple Medical Centre, East Wing, Wickford Ave, Pitsea, Basildon SS13 3HQ
- booking online
If you are eligible for the spring vaccination but think you have missed a previous booster you should still go ahead – you will not need another dose.