Covid spring booster campaign begins for over-75s

Rebecca Brahde
BBC News, Isle of Man
PA Media A closeup of a blue clinical gloves pushing a needle into a vial containing a vaccine.PA Media
The Covid spring booster vaccination programme will run until 4 July

A programme offering a spring Covid booster vaccine to those over the age of 75 and other vulnerable groups has begun.

The campaign, which and runs until 4 July, is in line with advice from the UK's Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

Others eligible for the seasonal jabs include residents of elderly care homes and those who are immunosuppressed.

Manx Care's medical director Chris Stockport said it was "crucial" that those offered the vaccine "take advantage" of it.

He said vaccination remained the "most effective tool in combating the virus and protecting our community" as it enhanced immunity, therefore "reducing the risk of severe illness".

The jabs will primarily be delivered from the Vaccination Hub at Noble's Hospital.

But Manx Care said a limited number of appointments would be made available to vulnerable patients in Ballasalla, Castletown, Onchan, Laxey, Peel, Port Erin and Ramsey on selected dates.

Those eligible would receive letters and emails detailing their appointment time, date and location, the healthcare provider said.

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