Just two weeks left to get your COVID-19 vaccine

People living in Lancashire and South Cumbria who are eligible for a COVID-19 vaccine have just two weeks left to get their jab.

The autumn vaccination programme will come to an end on 31 January. Since it launched in September last year, more than 322,000 people in Lancashire and South Cumbria have received a vaccine – more than 60 per cent of those eligible.

But with new variants of COVID-19 being reported, health leaders predict a spike in cases of the disease making it even more important that people protect themselves as best they can.

While the system to book an appointment is no longer available, vaccinations are available via walk-in appointments at pharmacies all over the region, as well as some additional clinics being organised by NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB).

Carole McCann, chief nurse for the vaccination programme, said: “We are delighted at the response to this latest round of COVID-19 vaccinations and the uptake in Lancashire and South Cumbria has been higher than many other areas, including in the north west.

“COVID-19 is still a serious illness that can be dangerous to those who are most vulnerable. And with new strains being reported it is really important anyone who is able to get a jab does so as soon as possible.

“We would particularly urge anyone working in the health and care sector to find out where the nearest walk-in vaccination centres are and to go along before the end of the month. You won’t be asked to provide any proof of identity.”

As well as health and care staff, those eligible include carers and pregnant women, care home residents and staff, anyone aged 65 and older, anyone who is over six months and clinically extremely vulnerable and those aged 12 and older who share a house with people who are immunosuppressed.

For details of where you can get a vaccine, visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/getmyjab or call the COVID-19 vaccination helpline on 0300 7906856.