The NHS in the North East and Yorkshire has been running its spring COVID-19 vaccination programme since 13 April 2026, allowing eligible residents in York and across the region to book appointments for a seasonal health boost. The programme, which provides a protective top-up, aims to safeguard those most at risk of becoming seriously ill.
According to the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, those now eligible for the vaccine include adults aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older adults, and individuals aged six months and older who have a weakened immune system. Millions of appointment slots are available through the end of June, with the final vaccinations taking place on 30 June 2026.
Dr Hamish McLure, Regional Medical Director for the NHS in the North East and Yorkshire, encouraged residents who qualify to come forward. He noted that protection from previous doses decreases over time, making this spring appointment essential for maintaining immunity. Surveillance data from the UK Health Security Agency indicates that those who received a spring vaccine last year were approximately 55 percent less likely to be admitted to hospital with the virus in the 5 to 9 weeks following their jab.
Eligible individuals do not need to wait for a formal invitation to book their appointment. Bookings can be made through the NHS website, the NHS App, or by calling 119 for free. In some areas, residents who are also eligible for an RSV vaccine may be able to receive both at the same appointment.
The importance of these programmes was highlighted in a recent report by the COVID-19 Inquiry chaired by Baroness Hallett, which estimated that previous vaccination efforts saved 475,000 lives across England and Scotland by March 2023.
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