The vaccination programme is moving to business as usual in line with other vaccination programmes as Spring boosters are coming to an end.
There will be no need for the larger vaccination sites. This means Centre For Life, Durham County Hall and Darlington Arena will not be operating as large vaccination sites from the end of June.
We hope these FAQ’s will help people understand what is happening over the next few months.
Who is eligible now?
NHS offer of a vaccine remains evergreen, so anyone who has not yet come forward can still do so.
Those eligible for the spring booster specifically adults aged 75 years and over, residents in a care home for older adults, and individuals aged 12 years and over who are immunosuppressed should still come forward to ensure they are protected. Its anticipated that most will have done so by the end of June.
Its unlikely that anyone will receive letters to come forward for a vaccine during July and August ahead of the seasonal campaign, but the evergreen offer of a vaccine is still there for anyone who wants a COVID-19 vaccine.
I am due a booster dose and how do I get vaccinated?
The National Booking Service (NBS) shows available appointments and there is also a site finder to locate vaccine walk-in centres which is updated regularly. This finder shows which doses are offered at each location and to which age groups.
Local Authority vaccine pages and social media will also show where you can get vaccinated, including any pop ups.
Will I still be able to walk in and get vaccinated
There will always be an opportunity to get vaccinated. Walk ins are listed here: https://nenc-countydurham.icb.nhs.uk/where-and-when-you-can-you-get-a-walk-in-covid-19-jab-in-county-durham/
Any walk ins or pop up sessions will be advertised locally and on social media.
Can I still come forward if I need a booster?
Yes if you are eligible you can book at appointment through National Booking Service (NBS)
Will I be eligible for a seasonal COVID-19 vaccination
As in autumn 2021, the primary objective of the 2022 seasonal booster programme will be to increase population immunity and protection against severe COVID-19 disease, specifically hospitalisation and death, over the winter period.
The JCVI’s current view is that in autumn 2022, a COVID-19 vaccine should be offered to:
· residents in a care home for older adults and staff
· frontline health and social care workers
· all those 65 years of age and over
· adults aged 16 to 64 years who are in a clinical risk group
Read more here:
Will I be able to get COVID-19 vaccination in September with my Flu vaccine?
The Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation has said that it is safe to get your flu jab and COVID-19 on the same day.
Many pharmacies and GP surgeries will have both vaccines. Please see your local NHS information to confirm if this can be offered where you would normally get your flu vaccine.
What happens if there is a new variant?
We have the capability to vaccinate the population and to mobilise quicky. If it is advised that this is necessary, you will be contacted when it is your turn.
Overseas Vaccination Service – what if my records are incorrect? Can I get meet someone to show my documents?
We are looking at ways that we can offer this service and will advertise this shortly.