A Bolton GP is urging those yet to have their Covid vaccines to come forward before time runs out.

Dr Helen Wall says it is people's 'last chance' to get their first or second Covid vaccine doses, which will no longer be available after Friday, June 30 this year. 

Following that date, the NHS will move to a targeted seasonal offer for those at increased risk from Covid-19, which continues to spread and make some people very ill.

There are thousands of appointments available over the next four weeks, at doctors’ surgeries, pharmacies and in community venues, making it easier than ever to get protected.

Dr Wall, who is Clinical Director for Population Health at NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care, said: “Many of those offered the vaccine this spring have now had this extra protection, but for those we haven’t seen yet there is less than a month to come forward.

The Bolton News: A patient receiving a Covid-19 vaccine A patient receiving a Covid-19 vaccine (Image: Pixabay)

"After that Covid-19 vaccinations will not be available to the wider population until later this year, and then they must be eligible.

“If you have had only one Covid vaccine so far, or none at all, it is not too late. You can get vaccinated quickly and easily until June 30, after which the offer will become more targeted, like the regular flu vaccine.

“Please make the most of the weeks ahead by protecting yourself from Covid before the offer ends.”

Around 243,000 people are eligible for a spring vaccine with Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice – the committee that advises UK health departments on immunisation – which includes people aged 75 and over, people aged five and over with weakened immune systems and older adult care home residents.

Anyone aged 5 or over who has not had a first Covid-19 vaccination, or had a first more than 56 days ago (84 days for age five-18 years) and requires a second, can also come in and get their vaccines up to date.

Anyone who is eligible for a spring booster or a first or second vaccination, or can make a booking by using the NHS App or visiting nhs.uk/CovidVaccination.

Anyone who can't get online can can’t get online, you can call 119 for free.

Some areas also offer convenient walk-in vaccinations – to find out what is available, visit nhs.uk/vaccine-walk-in.