Health bosses are encouraging 12-15-year-olds to grab a jab over half term to protect themselves and their families from Covid-19.

Children and young people aged 12-15-years-old are being offered vaccinations through school clinics. However, this cohort can also receive their jab at clinics held outside of school hours if they prefer.

Amanda Sullivan, Accountable Officer at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire CCG, said: “I would urge all 12–15-year-olds to take up the offer as soon as they can, to receive greater protection from the virus. Half term is a perfect time to get vaccinated and reduce the risk of passing on the infection to others in their family and others they come into contact with.

“Getting the vaccine can also make it easier for children and young people to avoid putting their lives and their education on hold because of further disruption to schools, hobbies and social events due to the virus. It is not too late for a first vaccine, so I urge all who have not yet come forward to do so.”

In Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, latest data shows 56.7 per cent of 12-15-year-olds have had one dose of the vaccine.

Lucy Hubber, Director of Public Health in Nottingham, said: “We continue to have high rates of Covid-19 in our city and so I would urge everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated. It remains the best thing you can do to protect yourself against the virus, significantly reducing the risk of becoming severely ill or dying.

“If you are yet to have the vaccine, it is not too late. The half-term holiday is a good opportunity for parents and carers to go along to the Forest Recreation Ground vaccination centre in the city to make sure young people have their jab. Please do everything you can to stay safe from Covid-19.”

While most children infected usually have mild symptoms from Covid-19, some do become quite ill and some go on to develop more serious symptoms. This includes ‘Long Covid’ which has side-effects such as extreme fatigue and weakness. While doctors are still learning about these long-term effects, it is clear that vaccination protects against the damage they can do.

Jonathan Gribbin, Director of Public Health for Nottinghamshire, said: “Children and young people aged 12 – 15 should have two doses of the vaccine for stronger and longer-lasting protection against Covid-19.

“They are safe, effective, and free of charge. I urge parents and guardians to help their child get their first or second dose during half term. They can book an appointment online, call 119 or visit their nearest walk-in site in the county or city.

“Please also think about the additional actions you and your family can take to stay safe during the half term break, including regular testing and self-isolating if required. Rapid lateral flow tests are available free of charge, and you should take one on days when you’re more likely to catch or spread Covid-19.

“If you have any family-fun activities planned in Nottinghamshire, consider wearing a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaces and let plenty of fresh air in if you’re meeting with friends and family indoors. Although the days are starting to get longer, we are still in Winter Plan A and need to remain cautious and act carefully to protect our health and care service and keep everyone safe.”

Children and young people can book an appointment on the NHS website or by calling 119. They can also walk in without an appointment. The clinic times are: 

Mansfield Vaccination Centre:

Monday – Friday 3pm-7:30pm

Saturday and Sunday 8:30am-7:30pm

During Half term week (12-20 February) extra clinics will be held from 8:30am-7:30pm every day.

King’s Mill Hospital:

Monday – Sunday 8am-7pm

Forest Recreation Ground:

Monday and Wednesday 3pm-7.30pm

Saturday 3-7.30pm and Sunday 8.20am-1.40pm.

During half term week (12-20 February) an extra clinic will take place on Friday 18 February from 3pm-7:30pm.