The Covid-19 vaccination programme in Bath and North East Somerset, is now being rolled out with the oldest and youngest in the region being

invited to come forward. People aged 75 and over, who had their initial booster vaccine at least six months ago, are now being encouraged to book their second top-up dose without delay. Those in this age category, as well as any person aged 12 and over with a severely weakened immune system, do not need to wait to be contacted by the NHS, and canbook their vaccine appointment directly using the National Booking Service. Similarly, from today ( Saturday 2 April ) parents of children aged between five and 11-years old will also be able to arrange for their child to receive a single dose of the coronavirus vaccine. Previously, the Covid-19 vaccine had only been available to young children who were deemed to be clinically extremely vulnerable, and at greater risk of falling seriously ill with coronavirus. Appointments for the child vaccine, as well as the second booster for older people and those who are vulnerable, can be booked online at www.nhs.uk or over the phone by calling 119. Gill May, Director of Nursing and Quality, said: "Coronavirus hasn't gone away, and there are still very high numbers of people in our communities testing positive for Covid-19 each day. "Previous vaccines mean most who do test positive will not become seriously unwell, but there are some who will, unfortunately, still need to be looked after in hospital. "For older people, this latest vaccination phase will enhance and prolong existing their existing immunity, while the vaccine for children will ensure little ones are protected from catching the virus and subsequently passing it on. "All of our vaccination sites currently have good appointment availability, so I would strongly encourage all who are eligible for a vaccine, be it an older person, a young child or somebody who is yet to have even their first jab, to come forward as soon as possible."

Covid-19 vaccines can be obtained from a variety of venues across the region, including large sites such as Bath Racecourse.

In addition, many community-based locations, including a large number of pharmacies and some GP practices, are also offering vaccinations.

People can find the vaccination site closest to their home or work by using the National Booking Service, which lists nearby venues in order of distance from a given postcode. For further information on the local rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine, including an extensive list of frequently asked questions, visit www.bswccg.nhs.uk.