Over 75s reminded to take up their spring boosters

With rising numbers of older patients being treated for Covid in Royal Blackburn Hospital, the over 75s are being reminded to have their spring booster dose.

Figures from last Friday (8 April) show that of the 37 patients from Blackburn with Darwen being treated in hospital for Covid, 32 were over the age of 60 years.

Of the 37 patients, only three were unvaccinated, however 31 of had had three doses of the Covid jab.

Abdul Razaq, Blackburn with Darwen’s Director of Public Health, commented:

This local data highlights the importance of older people topping up their Covid immunity by taking up the offer of the spring booster.

The Covid-19 vaccination protects against serious illness and needing hospital treatment, but we know that immunity from the vaccines wanes over time. It’s therefore essential that the over 75s, and also over 12s who have weakened immune systems, take up the offer of their spring booster dose as soon as possible.

Covid hasn’t gone away, we’re still living through a pandemic, and we need to do everything we can to protect ourselves.

Jane Scattergood, senior responsible officer for the Lancashire & South Cumbria vaccination programme, added:

Vaccines remain our best defence against Covid-19 and will reduce the risk of anyone becoming seriously ill if they do contract this virus.

With Covid-19 still circulating, I’d like to encourage everyone eligible to come forward and make sure your protection is topped up.

Anyone over 75 can come forward, around six months since their last vaccination, and book online, walk-in to one of our vaccination centres or call us to request a vaccine at home.

We also continue to welcome people of any age who have never had a vaccine or who still need their second dose.

You don’t need an appointment for a Covid vaccination – just walk into your chosen vaccination site. Find your nearest at www.healthierlsc.co.uk/getmyjab.

You can also call the NHS on 119 to make a vaccination appointment, or use the NHS online booking system.

People who are unsure about going to a vaccination site or who need support to leave home may be able to have their Covid vaccination in their own home. More information is available at www.healthierlsc.co.uk/VacAtHome or by calling 0300 790 6856.