25 to 29-year-olds in Preston and Lancashire to be called for first Covid vaccine

Preston's mass vaccination centre within the St John's Shopping Centre Pic: Mick Gardner — Preston’s mass vaccination centre within the St John’s Shopping Centre Pic: Mick Gardner

The NHS Covid vaccination programme will start inviting remaining adults for their Covid-19 jabs from Tuesday 8 June, on the six month anniversary of administering the worlds-first approved jab.

The last group of adults will begin to be called forward for the first time today, with around three million people aged between 25 and 29 getting invited to book their first dose, with texts being sent from Tuesday and national booking services updated at 7am.

More than half of adults are now fully vaccinated giving them maximum possible protection from coronavirus.

Anyone in the age groups now eligible for a vaccine is asked to book their jab once they receive the text message alert, with GPs also set to urge the newly eligible to come forward, over the coming days.

Alongside opening up invites for first doses, the NHS is pushing a major drive on ensuring people get their second dose of the vaccine which is vital to get maximum protection against the virus.

Health service leaders and top medics are urging those asked to do so, to bring forward their second dose appointment.

Lancashire and South Cumbria Covid-19 Vaccination Director Jane Scattergood, said: “It is fantastic to see so many people come forward so quickly to get their lifesaving Covid vaccine – this action means that we are protecting our communities against the virus.

“The offer doesn’t go away so if you are eligible and haven’t booked, please do come forward and do so. It is safe, effective and will protect you and those around you.

“The success of the programme is no accident as behind each vaccine at each site there is a lot of work and dedication from our staff and from our volunteers – we are so grateful for their continued help.”

When invited, people will be able to book at one of the 1,600 vaccination centres, pharmacy or general practice sites across the country that are available through the national booking service. Vaccination centres are also available in convenient locations such as mosques, museums and rugby grounds.

Text invitations, which do not expire, appear as an alert from ‘NHSvaccine’ and include a web link to the NHS website to reserve an appointment.

Vaccines Minister, Minister Zahawi said: “We have taken yet another step forward and are now calling all over 25’s to get the jab.

“This is yet another incredible step forward in our journey back to normality. With our recently announced dating apps partnership, we are leaving no stone unturned when it comes to encouraging people to take up the vaccine.

“When you get the offer, get the jab – it could save your life and protect your loved ones.”

The latest vaccination updates in your area can be seen below

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

People aged 39 and under who are eligible and pregnant women will be offered the Pfizer or Moderna vaccine in line with updated JCVI guidance.