COVID-19 vaccination and treatment updates

The 30 June 2023 was the last day that anyone could get a COVID-19 vaccination and we have now predominantly moved to a booster schedule, much like with the annual flu vaccination.

The only people who are having first and second COVID-19 vaccinations are children aged 6 months to 4 years who are at increased risk from COVID-19 infection who will be invited via local NHS services.

If between now and autumn you develop a weakened immune system, for example because of a new diagnosis of lymphoma or because you are starting treatment, you may be eligible for an additional vaccination to give you protection in the interim. Speak to your specialist team who will discuss timing and eligibility and may be able to refer you. 

For everyone else at risk, it has been determined that a seasonal booster campaign is the best way to ensure protection from getting severely ill from COVID-19. This will be at some time in the autumn. A list of who is eligible has not yet been determined, but we will update our information once it has. If you are eligible, you will be invited by the NHS and will either be able to book online, get it via your GP surgery, in a care home, or at a walk-in vaccination site.

The only other thing to note is that there is a new Sanofi and GSK vaccine called Vidprevtyn-Beta which contains an oil from sharks.

Treatment if you have COVID-19 infection

The way you can access treatment for COVID-19 infection has also changed and it differs on which part of the UK you live in.

England

It is now the job of the local integrated care board to arrange COVID-19 treatments. Search your local integrated care board (ICB) website for more information, but in general the process for people is:

1. Take a lateral flow test if you have symptoms (these can still be obtained for free if eligible for treatment).
2. If positive you need to contact your GP, hospital specialist or 111 (if out of hours) as soon as possible for treatment.
3. If negative, do a further 2 lateral flows over the next 2 days to be sure if it is COVID-19 or not.

Wales

In Wales if you have a positive lateral flow you need to register it online here or by ringing 119. If you are eligible you will be contacted via text message or telephone. If you are not contacted you should contact NHS 111.

Scotland

In Scotland if you have a positive lateral flow you will need to contact your local NHS health board to see if you are eligible for treatment. The numbers for the health boards can be found here.

Northern Ireland

In Northern Ireland if you have a positive lateral flow you need to register it here or by calling 119. You will then be contacted regarding treatment. If you are not contacted then contact your GP.