Nearly half a million people in the North West have received their spring Covid booster from the NHS.

The accomplishment was achieved just ten weeks after the booking system for the latest vaccination campaign officially opened.

The spring vaccine is aimed at those aged 75 and above, those with a weakened immune system, and older adult care home residents.

Among these categories, 454,000 vaccines have been administered in the North West, part of more than four million administered across the country.

The opportunity to receive the vaccine was formally extended to everyone outside of care homes on April 22.

However, dedicated NHS staff have been administering vaccines in older adult care homes since April 15.

Nearly two-thirds of care home residents in the region have now received their boosters.

Dr Linda Charles Ozuzu, the regional director of commissioning and senior responsible officer for the COVID-19 vaccination programme for NHS England – North West, said: "It’s great to see so many people have already come forward to receive their vital protection since the launch of the spring covid vaccination programme ten weeks ago.

"COVID-19 can still be dangerous for those most vulnerable, so it is vital that people come forward for a top-up jab if eligible.

"I’d particularly like to remind younger people who have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or medication that they are eligible for the spring vaccine and urge them to come forward before the offer finishes at the end of this month."

The NHS has made it easier than ever to get vaccinated, with walk-in sites established across the North West.

Appointments are also available at hundreds of sites including GP practices and pharmacies.

These can be booked through the NHS App, by calling 119, or visiting the NHS website.

For the first time, joint bookings are available for two eligible people aged 18 and above, allowing them to receive the vaccine at the same time or immediately after the other.