REGIONAL health chiefs are urging people eligible for a spring Covid-19 jab to come forward.

Anyone aged 75 or over, and children and adults with weakened immune systems, are among those who can book an appointment for the latest vaccination.

The programme opens on Monday (April 22), and vaccinations will be available until June 30.

Those eligible will receive invitations, but the NHS says people don't need to wait to be invited.

Patients can download the NHS app and make an appointment, visit nhs.uk/get-vaccine or call 119 for free.

Parents or carers can book a vaccination on behalf of eligible children aged under 16.

Dr Hamish McLure, regional medical director with NHS England, says: "Covid-19 can still be very dangerous and even life-threatening, particularly for older people and those with a weakened immune system.

"Over time, immunity can fade, so it is vital that those who are at higher risk top up their protection.

"The vaccine gives good protection and helps reduce the risk of serious illness or death, the need to go to hospital, and the likelihood of catching and spreading the virus, and it protects against its different variants.

"Getting vaccinated is quicker and more convenient than ever, with sites available across the region – including local pharmacies and GP practices. I urge anyone eligible to book their appointment as soon as possible."

The programme is supported by West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership.

Its medical director, Dr James Thomas, says: "Anyone eligible who has not received a previous dose – or hasn't for a while – should get vaccinated during this spring offer, to help protect against serious illness. It is vital that those who are at higher risk top up their protection."

NHS teams have also begun visits to more than 900 older adult care homes, and eligible housebound patients, across the region as part of the vaccination programme.

Data compiled by the UK Health Security Agency following last year's spring Covid-19 vaccination scheme showed that those who received a jab were around 50 per cent less likely to be admitted to hospital with the illness for three to four months after vaccination, compared to those who didn't receive one.

A list of walk-in Covid-19 vaccination sites is available at nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/find-a-walk-in-covid-19-vaccination-site

The NHS is also encouraging those eligible to get the shingles vaccine. More details about the eligibility requirements and the vaccination are available at nhs.uk/vaccinations/shingles-vaccine