The Covid-19 booster programme is underway – and those who are eligible are being urged to book an appointment as soon as they are invited.

Among those who have had their booster vaccine is 90-year-old William Andrews who had his vaccination at Trentside Medical Centre in Netherfield.

He said: “There were no problems getting my vaccination, it was very simple. I got a text and then I booked to come to the nearest location. I am very happy that I have now had the vaccine.”

Those eligible for a booster dose of the vaccine include over 50s, people over 16 with a health condition that puts them at high risk of getting seriously ill from Covid-19 and health and social care workers. The public will only be able to book an appointment for a booster dose if it’s been at least 6 months (182 days) since their second dose of the vaccine.

Letters and texts are being sent from the NHS to remind those eligible to book their appointment on the NHS website or by calling 119. Residents are urged to take up this invitation as soon as it arrives to maximise their protection over the winter.

Ian Childerley, who works in a local hospital was able to have a flu and Covid-19 booster jab at the same time.

He said: “I got a text message and I booked my appointment, which was just down the road from where I live, which is very convenient. I was offered a flu jab and a Covid-19 booster jab at the same time. It has saved me a lot of time and makes a lot of sense to get them both together.”

Across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire more than 50 sites are offering booster vaccines in GP practices, pharmacies and at larger vaccination sites. The public will be able to choose the site most convenient for them when they book an appointment.

Amanda Sullivan, Accountable Officer at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire CCG, added: “The Covid-19 booster vaccine is very important as it helps to improve the protection from your first two doses of the vaccine and gives longer-term protection against getting seriously ill from Covid-19.

“As we head into a winter period where we expect cases of both seasonal flu and Covid-19, it is important that we make sure people are protected. Please do book in for your booster dose if you are eligible and encourage your friends and family to do the same to make sure we are protected this winter.”

For more information on the booster programme, please visit the NHS website.