Millions of people have now received a Covid-19 vaccine, which is a safe and effective way to help fight coronavirus.
The first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine offers a high level of protection, but to get longer-lasting protection everyone will need to get a second dose. You should get the same type of vaccine for both doses.
It is important that you come back for your second jab when you are contacted, or if you have an appointment booked.
If you had your first vaccine at a hospital hub or through a local GP service, you will be contacted about your second dose. If you booked your first vaccine online through nhs.uk, or by calling 119, you should have booked both your first and second dose appointments at the same time. If you have any concerns, you can speak to your GP, go online, or call 119 for advice. Find out more: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/.
Some appointments have been brought forward
The Government and the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation announced on Friday 14th May that second dose appointments will be brought forward from 12 to 8 weeks for those aged 50 and over who are waiting to receive their second dose.
Those who have their second dose booked in the next ten days, up to and including 24 May, should attend their appointment as planned.
Nobody needs to contact the NHS, the NHS will contact you to let you know when you can rebook.
How to access the second dose:
- People who received their first dose in a hospital hub or through a GP service will be contacted to receive their second dose. You do not need to contact the NHS unless you are concerned.
- People who booked their vaccine appointments online at www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination will have booked both their first and second dose appointments at the same time. People who booked online can remind themselves of the place and time of their second dose using the ‘manage my appointments’ section on www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination
- People who booked their vaccine appointments by ringing 119 will have been given details of their second appointment over the phone. You can call 119 if you have any queries about your booking, or need to change it.
On Oxford /AstraZeneca and the second dose:
- It’s recommended you have the same vaccine for both doses.
- If you had the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine for your first dose and did not have any serious side effects, you should have it for your second dose. Speak to your GP or staff at the vaccination centre if you have any questions.
