Top up your protection against COVID-19 by getting vaccinated this spring if you are eligible. Those at increased risk from severe illness can get the vaccine, including those aged 75 or over (on 30 June 2024), people with a weakened immune system or who live in an older adult care home.
The NHS will visit care homes and housebound people from 15 April to offer the vaccine and other eligible people eligible will be able book from the same day, for appointments from 22 April. If eligible, you do not need to wait for an invitation to book your vaccine.
To book, please visit the NHS App, the NHS website or call 119 for free. You may also be able to visit a local walk-in site which does not require a booking.
Don’t get caught out. If you or your child are eligible, make sure you get any extra protection you need this spring. Get vaccinated against COVID-19.
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What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is an infectious disease that is caused by a particular type of coronavirus that infects the windpipe and lungs which are part of the respiratory system. There are a range of symptoms of COVID-19 including a new continuous cough, shortness of breath and an aching body.
The symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other illnesses including flu and a full list of symptoms is available on the NHS website. COVID-19 often gets better on its own but can lead to serious illness. It is important to get the COVID-19 vaccine ahead of winter if you are eligible to protect yourself.
Why should I get the COVID-19 vaccine this spring?
If you're at increased risk of illness from COVID-19, getting a COVID-19 vaccine gives you good protection and helps to:
COVID-19 vaccines are offered to those who have had previous doses, because the virus changes, and protection fades, over time.
Who can get a COVID vaccination this spring?
Eligibility for a spring vaccination is similar to previous years but those with a weakened immune system are now eligible from 6 months instead of 5 years. This follows updated advice last April on COVID-19 vaccination of children aged 6 months to 4 years in a clinical risk group.
Following JCVI advice, the following groups of people can get a further vaccination this spring:
Find out the latest information about the COVID-19 vaccine.
Last year, more than 6,000 under-fives in England were hospitalised by flu, and many more needed care in accident and emergency. The vaccine reduces a child’s chance of needing hospital care for flu by around two-thirds.
The flu vaccine is also offered to most children who should get it as soon as they can for their protection and to help stop the virus spreading to others. The children’s flu vaccine is usually given as a quick and painless spray up the nose.
Adults can book their flu vaccination through their GP practice or local pharmacy, and some people may be offered their vaccinations directly by a local NHS service.
Vaccines are the best protection against both viruses so please share these posts on your social media as appropriate.
And includes:
Flu and COVID-19 can be unpleasant many people, particularly those with certain health conditions, older people, and pregnant women. Catching any virus over winter increases the risk of serious illness even further.
You can find out the latest information about both vaccines and how to book by visiting the NHS website.
You can use the Greater Manchester Integrated Care website to find local pharmacies in Salford offering the Flu and the COVID-19 vaccination.
For advice on what to do if you test positive for COVID, if you suspect a member of your family may have COVID or measures that can prevent you infecting anyone else.
Call the Spirit of Salford Helpline
This page was last updated on 25 April 2024