People in Swindon and Wiltshire are being reminded of the reasons why they should come forward for the Covid-19 spring booster vaccine.

Time is of the essence because, if those eligible have their top-up dose soon, they will be protected for the summer months and will be able to receive their autumn jab as soon as it becomes available.

People aged 75 and over, care home residents and anyone aged 12 and above with a weakened immune system can access the spring booster.

Director of nursing and quality Gill May said: “Throughout the vaccination programme, we have always kept one eye on the future, and we know that people who get boosted in the next week or so, will be ready for their autumn booster when the vaccine programme picks up speed again in late September and early October.

“Of course, focusing on the here and now, having the spring booster will also provide protection over the next few months, when we expect infections to continue increasing as a result of us all spending more time with friends, family and neighbours.

“The spring booster jab is a proven way of keeping our most vulnerable friends and loved ones safe throughout the first summer that will be completely free of any nationally-imposed Covid-19 restrictions.”