Hundreds of thousands of text messages will be sent by the NHS COVID-19 Vaccination programme this week reminding people to bring forward their second dose appointment.

Approximately 650,000 texts will be sent encouraging people to get their second jab eight weeks after their first, in line with updated guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. The reminders are part of a concerted drive to maximise vaccinations before restrictions are lifted next week.

The NHS COVID-19 Vaccination programme has already delivered almost 68 million jabs protecting well over 38 million people with a first dose, including more than 29 million who are fully vaccinated after receiving both doses.

So far, since mid-May, just over 2.5 million appointments have been brought forward through the national booking service.

Sir Keith Willett, head of the COVID-19 Vaccination programme in England, said: “Thanks to the hard work of NHS staff and volunteers up and down the country, almost two thirds of people in England have already received two doses of the jab. The crucial second dose gives maximum protection against the virus and it will protect you, your family and those around you.

“As we approach 19 July, there has never been a more important time to get jabbed and it has never been easier – from pop up sites in the community to walk in centres, NHS staff are going to great lengths to ensure vaccines are as convenient as possible. So I urge everyone to bring their second dose appointment forward to eight weeks as soon as they can.”