Covid jab: Time running out to get first and second covid-19 doses

After Friday, June 30, the 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has been offered to older people and those at an increased risk of falling seriously ill from Covid-19, is also being withdrawn after this date.

In future, 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.

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

VACCINE: Coronavirus vaccine (Image: PA Wire/PA Images)

If a person without protection moves into an at-risk group, the offer of a first or second dose will re-open with the seasonal booster programmes.

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.

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 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 before the end of June.

To book an appointment, or for more information, visit herefordshireandworcestershireccg.nhs.uk or swhealthcare.org.uk/covidvaccines.