Vaccine call for over 40s

Buddies over 40 whose second c o ronav i r u s vaccination appointment is scheduled more than eight weeks after their first are being encouraged to seek an earlier slot.

It follows recent advice from the Joint Committee on Va c c i nation and Immunisation ( JCVI ) recommending that the interval for second doses be brought forward from 12 to eight weeks - where supply allows.

The national vaccination programme is already scheduling appointments to reflect the latest guidance.

However, many people – particularly over 40s - have already received an invitation in line with the previous recommendation of a 12- week interval, and they are now being invited to reschedule for an earlier appointment.

Supplies permitting, this will also apply to under 40s when their second dose appointments are due.

A new vaccine journey tool on the NHS Inform website allows people to check the status of their second appointment. If it is more than eight weeks from the first, another slot can be booked if there is one available.

The national helpline can also be used, and dropin clinics are being set- up around the country.