Covid Vaccine
Due to the rapidly changing picture of Covid, the information on this page will be regulary updated as guidelines change.
Last Updated 15/04/2024.
Why get vaccinated?
Covid vaccines have been shown to:
- Save lives
- Reduce the risk of severe Covid infection leading to hospitalisation
- Can reduce the spread of infection between people
BILLIONS have been vaccinated and the data shows they work, and are safe.
Covid Spring 2024 Booster
If you are aged 75 or over, OR have a weakened immune system (see below), you can now book your seasonal COVID-19 vaccine online or via the NHS App.
You have a weakened immune system if you:
- have ever had a blood cancer, such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma
- have had an organ, bone marrow or stem cell transplant
- have HIV (at any stage)
- have a genetic disorder affecting your immune system
- have certain medical treatments, such as steroid medicine (depending on your dose), certain antibody therapies, chemotherapy or radiotherapy (including those whose treatment ended up to 6 months ago)
- take certain medicines that increase your risk of infection, such as azathioprine, dexamethasone, prednisolone, ciclosporin or mycophenolate (depending on your dose)
- take long-term immunosuppressive treatment for conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, scleroderma and psoriasis
Visit nhs.uk/book-vaccine
Proof of vaccination "Covid Passport"
This is available on the NHS App.
- Download for free, and register for the NHS App today
- Ring 119 if you need a paper copy of proof (can take up to 5 days)
Please do NOT contact the GP practice about vaccine status as GPs cannot provide this information
Covid vaccination and pregnancy
If you are pregnant, you will be offered the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine.
Covid vaccines are safe in pregnancy. More information about vaccines when you are pregnant or breast feeding can be found here.
#TorkardTopTips when you attend a vaccine clinic
- Avoid arriving early, because you may not be allowed in
- Please give yourself some additional time later on, just in case there is a wait – don’t plan other appointments later that day
- Make sure you feel well (if you have a current infection, you may be better postponing it)
- Wear appropriate clothes – it’s winter and cold, and it may rain – please prepare for this. Remember, you may be waiting outside
- Once inside, ensure your arm can be exposed fully easily
- If you have an invite letter, please bring it with you
- If you know or can find out your NHS number (eg via NHS App, your invite letter) please write it down and bring it with you – it makes finding you on the computer system so much quicker
- Bring your list of medication (we're specifically interested in any blood thinning medication such as warfarin)
- Try to come alone, although if you need a carer to accompany you for health reasons, they can come too
This will hopefully mean you have a calm and positive experience!
Above all, thank you for getting the vaccine, and share your positive experience with anyone who is undecided!
Health Conditions and Vaccination
A number of charities have worked with the NHS to produce advice about the COVID 19 vaccine, in relation to certain health conditions.
Take a look at:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/health-conditions/