Over 70s are asked to contact the NHS to have their COVID-19 vaccine

Until now, the NHS asked people not to contact them about their COVID vaccination and wait until they are approached. This remains the case for most people, but local NHS services are encouraging people in priority cohorts 1-4 (over 70s and those on the shielded patient list) to contact the NHS to book their appointment to ensure everyone in this group is offered the vaccine by mid-February.

Eligible people can book their appointment by contacting the national booking service at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination. Those who cannot do it online can call a free 119 number, anytime between 7am and 11pm seven days a week. The national system allows patients to pick a convenient location and time.

It’s important to note that if someone receives a letter from the NHS to book with the national system, and they already have an appointment booked with their local GP practice, then please ignore the letter and keep the existing appointment.

Dr Ekta Elston, local GP and Medical Director of NHS North East Lincolnshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Healthcare colleagues in North East Lincolnshire have been doing a fantastic job to vaccinate people in the first four priority groups, but we want to ensure that all those who are eligible, have been offered the jab.

“We know that people over 70 and those on shielded patient list, are particularly vulnerable to coronavirus. It’s important that they come forward if they haven’t had their vaccine yet. I urge everyone to check with their parents, grandparents, relatives, neighbours and friends who are 70 years old and over if they have been vaccinated. If they haven’t had the vaccine yet, please help them book an appointment as soon as possible. We are determined that nobody should be left behind.

“The vaccine is safe, simple, and will offer you and those around you crucial protection against this virus.”