PEOPLE across the Keighley district eligible for the latest Covid-19 vaccination are being urged to come forward.

Figures show that over 130,000 people in West Yorkshire – and around 600,000 throughout Yorkshire and the north-east – have been vaccinated since the spring programme began in April.

But NHS bosses say there are people still unprotected, and an appeal has been issued for them to book an appointment before the programme closes at the end of this month.

Anyone aged 75 and over – or who will be 75 by June 30 – is eligible for a vaccination, together with older adult care home residents and people aged six months and over with a weakened immune system.

Joint bookings are being offered so that two eligible adults can attend via a single appointment, at the same location and time.

Dr James Thomas, a GP and medical director of NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, says: "From now until the end of the month there are thousands of appointments available every day across the region, including at pharmacies and GP practices. Some areas also offer convenient walk-in options and can be found online.

"Covid-19 still causes severe illness and hospitalisations in some cases, particularly amongst those most at risk.

"It can be dangerous for people aged over 75 and those with compromised immune systems. And even if you’ve been vaccinated before, protection does fade over time, so it’s important to come forward if eligible. With the new joint booking option, via the NHS app or by calling 119 free, the NHS is making it easier than ever."

Dr Hamish McLure, north-east and Yorkshire NHS regional medical director, says: "The vaccine gives the best protection against the virus and its different variants and helps reduce the risk of serious illness.

"It is fantastic to see that around 600,000 people in the region have already come forward since the start of the spring vaccination campaign in April, with hardworking NHS staff also having vaccinated over two-thirds of care home residents. But I would urge everyone eligible to come forward."

Dr Mary Ramsay, director of public health programmes at the UK Health Security Agency, says: "You can book online at nhs.uk/get-vaccine, or call 119 if you don’t have access to the internet.

"If you're showing symptoms of Covid-19, stay at home if possible and avoid contact with other people, especially those who are more vulnerable."