Those aged 44 across Preston will be invited to book their Covid-19 vaccination from today (Monday 26 April) as the NHS vaccination programme continues.

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England’s top doctor is urging people to come forward for their jab when they are invited to do so.

Around half a million 44-year olds will receive a text inviting them to get their jab through the national booking service from today.

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The move to the next age group comes alongside the latest figures showing that more than two-thirds of people aged 45 to 49 had been vaccinated.

The decision to move to people aged 40-43 will be set out in the coming days.

Since the vaccination rollout began in December, over 28 million people have been vaccinated with a first dose in England, 63.8% of the total population of adults aged over 18.

NHS staff have also carried out more than ten million second doses and is reminding people to attend their second dose to ensure they receive maximum protection.

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NHS England chief executive, Sir Simon Stevens said: “Thanks to NHS staff, people aged 45-49 have been hot on the heels of millions of people most at risk who were quick to take up the offer of a vaccine, with more than two-thirds getting their lifesaving jab, marking another medically important milestone in the biggest vaccination campaign in NHS history.

“When the time comes, and you get that text, book an appointment to get your vaccine. It is the best protection you and your loved ones will receive from this virus.”

When invited, people will be able to book at a Vaccination Centre or pharmacy site across the country through the national booking service.

The NHS currently vaccinates using three vaccines, Pfizer, Moderna, and AstraZeneca, all of which have been approved as safe and effective by the world-leading medical regulator, the MHRA.

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People who cannot go online can call the service on 119 instead to book their jab.

Text invitations appear as an alert from ‘NHSvaccine’, including a web link to the NHS website to reserve an appointment.

Find out where your nearest vaccination centre is below

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Have you had your Covid vaccine? Let us know in the comments below.