With less than two weeks before both the National Booking Service (NBS) appointments close in mid- December – NHS Greater Manchester (GM) is urging all eligible people who haven’t already had their COVID-19 booster vaccine to come forward now to protect themselves and vulnerable people during the festive period.
Autumn and Winter is already associated with a rise in colds, flu and COVID-19, but it’s even more important that people who are at greater risk from COVID get their booster before the festive season – with parties and celebrating Christmas and New Year with family and friends making it easier for viruses to spread.
More than 340,000 booster vaccines have been delivered in Greater Manchester to people who are most at risk of becoming seriously ill with the virus since the latest phase of the COVID-19 vaccination programme started in October, but many more people still need to come forward.
Those eligible only have until Thursday 19th December to book their COVID-19 vaccination appointment, and until Friday 20th December to actually have their appointment before the NBS closes.
Dr Helen Wall, Clinical Director for Population Health at NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care said: “While it’s really positive that more than 340,000 people who are eligible for the winter COVID-19 booster have already come forward for the extra protection, we still need more than half of those eligible to be vaccinated. I would urge anyone who is eligible and has yet to get the top up of protection, to book one of the thousands of appointments we have available and get protected in time for Christmas.
“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the festive period and all the fun that comes along with it, without the risk of becoming seriously ill, which is why the vaccines are so important. They continue to provide the best protection against complications and hospitalisation from COVID-19 as well as flu, so please make sure you get vaccinated when offered and encourage loved ones who are eligible to do the same.
“For the remaining time, booking an appointment is easier than ever, as well as the National Booking Service and calling 119, you can book on the NHS App.”
