Posted on: 9 December 2024
The NHS in West Yorkshire is reminding residents of three crucial dates for COVID-19 vaccination to ensure everyone is protected during the festive season and the winter months.
COVID-19 remains a serious illness for those infected. It mainly affects the lungs and can cause symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. While most people experience mild to moderate illness and recover without special treatment, some can become seriously ill and need medical care. Older adults, pregnant women, and people of all ages with existing health conditions are at higher risk of being admitted to hospital due to severe illness, and some may even die.
Key Dates:
- 11 December: It takes two weeks to be fully protected from COVID-19 after receiving your jab. Make sure you and your family are protected in time for Christmas.
- 20 December: This is the last day to book an appointment on the NHS App or by phone on 119 for your COVID-19 jab. To protect yourself this winter, book today.
- After 21 December: You won’t be able to book an appointment, but you can still walk into any participating pharmacy for your COVID-19 jab up to 31 January. You can find your nearest COVID-19 vaccination walk-in site here.
Dr James Thomas, GP and Medical Director at West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership said: “As we approach the winter season and the festive period, it is crucial that everyone takes the necessary steps to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19. Vaccination remains our best defence against this serious virus. I urge everyone who is eligible to take note of these important dates and ensure they are fully vaccinated. Your health, and the health of your family and those around you, depends on it.”
“It is wonderful that over 350,000 eligible people in West Yorkshire have taken their COVID-19 vaccination this autumn. However, that is only 40% of those who are actually eligible, so illness and transmission remain a real risk. I ask that you book, or go, for your COVID-19 jab today.”
To get your COVID-19 vaccination, use the NHS App, call 119 for free, or visit your local participating pharmacy.