Spring COVID-19 vaccination drive begins in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly

NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly is pleased to announce the launch of its Spring COVID-19 top-up vaccination campaign, aimed at boosting protection against COVID-19 within the most vulnerable groups in the community. The campaign commenced this week with vaccinations being administered in care homes across the region.

The NHS booking system is now also open for other eligible members of the public, with appointments available starting Monday, 22 April. Eligible cohorts include individuals aged 75 and over, and anyone aged 6 months and over who is immunosuppressed. 

The campaign’s immediate focus is on residents of care homes, who are among the first to receive their vaccinations due to their heightened vulnerability. Following this initial phase, the wider eligible populations can start booking their appointments with vaccinations available to them from Monday 22 April.

Isabel Ellis, 92, who was amongst the first people to get their spring COVID-19 vaccination at St Margarets Nursing Home in St Columb on Monday 15 April said, "I feel it is important to have the top-up vaccine to stay safe. I think it is the right thing to do."

Barry Pink, another resident at St Margarets added, "You never know what might happen and you cannot be too safe so I think topping up my immunity with the vaccination is important."

Appointments for the spring COVID-19 vaccination can be made through the national NHS website. Walk-in vaccinations will also be available in a few weeks' time, and availability will be published on NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly's website. Many GP surgeries also offer the top-up vaccination; appointments should be arranged directly with the surgery.

Iain Davidson, Chief Pharmacist at Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, emphasised the importance of this vaccination drive,  “As we approach the summer, it is crucial to ensure that our most vulnerable populations are protected against COVID-19. The top-up vaccine is an essential step in maintaining immunity as we understand immunity decreases over-time. This is especially important for those at higher risk of serious illness, such as people aged 75 and over and those aged 6 months and over who are immunosuppressed due to a medical condition or treatment. I urge everyone eligible to book their appointment as soon as possible.”

Being immunosuppressed means that a person's immune system is less capable of fighting infections and diseases, making them more vulnerable to illnesses. This can be due to various reasons, including certain medical conditions, treatments, or medications. Common examples of conditions that can cause immunosuppression include cancer, HIV and autoimmune diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis. Treatments like chemotherapy, organ transplants, and certain medications, especially those that suppress the immune system to manage conditions or prevent organ rejection, also lead to immunosuppression.

This vaccination campaign is a critical component of NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly’s ongoing efforts to manage COVID-19 effectively and ensure the safety of the community. By coming forward when called, you are playing a crucial role in our collective health and resilience against the virus.

For more information on the COVID-19 vaccination campaign, eligibility, and how to book your appointment, please visit the NHS website.