Hundreds of thousands of people will be invited to book a Spring Covid booster as the NHS vaccination scheme enters its latest phase.

Eligible groups for Spring boosters include care home residents, people who are 75 and over and those who are immunosuppressed aged 12 and over.

NHS England says that approximately 600,000 people will be invited to book this week (21 March 2022). In addition, local NHS teams will also offer vaccinations in care homes with hundreds more visits planned in the coming weeks.

In all, around five million people will be able to get a Spring booster dose.

Amanda Pritchard, NHS England chief executive, said: “The NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme has not stopped in its efforts to protect people from coronavirus – around five million of the most vulnerable people will be eligible for a Spring dose and from tomorrow, we will start giving eligible groups their additional top up in protection.

“We have protected millions of people at speed thanks to the efforts of our staff, aided by volunteers. They will once again rise to the next challenge. There is no need to contact the NHS – when you are eligible for your ‘spring boost’ of protection, we will be in touch so you can book your appointment at one of hundreds of vaccination sites across the country.”

Vaccines Minister Maggie Throup said: “The British public has responded incredibly during the pandemic, with tens of millions of people rolling up their sleeves to do their part by getting vaccinated. We must ensure those at greatest risk of serious illness from Covid are protected and spring boosters will top up people’s immunity. The NHS will contact you when it’s your turn – please take up the offer as soon as you can.”