Thousands of Covid-19 vaccines already given in south east London this spring

A strong start to the spring Covid-19 vaccination offer means thousands of residents in south east London are already increasing their protection against the virus.

Those that need extra protection this year include people aged 75 and over (including those by 17 June 2025), older adult care home residents, and immunosuppressed individuals aged six months and over.

They can book their vaccines on the NHS App, the NHS website or by calling 119 free of charge. Appointments for children aged 6 months to 4 years old can be booked by calling 0207 188 4040.

Invites are being sent via email, NHS App messages, texts, or letters – but you do not need to wait for an invite to book your appointment.

As well as booked appointments at GP practices and pharmacies, there are hundreds of walk-in appointments available every day in south east London, with a full list of local locations available on the NHS walk-in finder.

Latest weekly figures show nationally, more than 1,000 Covid-19 patients are in hospital on average every day (w/e 23 March), showing that this continues to be a serious illness.

The Covid-19 vaccine provides vital protection against several different variants of the virus and helps to reduce the risk of catching and spreading it as well as helping avoid hospitalisation.

Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) showed that those who received a Covid-19 vaccine in spring last year were more than 40% less likely to be admitted to hospital with the virus for up to two months after vaccination, compared to those who did not receive one.

The NHS is also encouraging those aged 75 to 79 (and those who have turned 80 since 1 September 2024) and pregnant women from 28 weeks to get the RSV vaccine by booking an appointment with their GP practice or speaking to their maternity services.

Visit the NHS website for more information.