THE Public Health Agency (PHA) are encouraging immunosuppressed individuals to come forward for their Covid-19 vaccination spring booster dose.

The  Public Health Agency (PHA) are encouraging people with a weakened immune system to continue to book or visit a walk-in clinic for their COVID-19 vaccines. All individuals aged 12 years and over who are immunosuppressed are advised to receive a spring booster dose of the vaccine, typically six months after their last dose.

In an open letter, a number of public health officals and charity CEO's including; Dr Michael McBride, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) have urged the public to come forward  for their spring booster.

The letter stated: "COVID-19 is still out there and the vaccine offers the best defence against becoming seriously unwell, staying out of hospital and passing on the virus to loved ones and others around you. It is safe, effective and free for everyone.

"The COVID-19 spring booster vaccination programme will shortly be coming to an end, but there is still time for immunosuppressed individuals to receive their spring booster vaccination via a participating community pharmacy or at a HSC Trust-led vaccination clinic."

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation recommends that people with a weakened immune system receive their spring booster as close as possible to six months after their last dose for maximum protection. However, the booster can be given from three months where necessary, depending on individual circumstances.

Find out more on how to get your spring booster vaccination at www.nidirect.gov.uk/covid-vaccine