We are pleased to be supporting the NHS Spring Covid Booster programme again this year.
Covid is still circulating and can cause serious illness in people who are more vulnerable. The spring booster helps strengthen protection for those most at risk and reduces the chance of severe illness and complications.
If you are eligible, we strongly encourage you to take up the offer of vaccination when invited.
Please read the information below which answers some of the most common questions our patients ask.
Who is eligible for the spring covid booster?
The spring booster is offered to patients who are at higher risk from covid. You may be eligible if you are:
- Aged 75 or over, including anyone turning 75 by 30th June 2026
- Living in a care home for older adults
- Aged 6 months or over with a weakened immune system
These groups are offered an extra dose because they benefit most from additional protection.
When will the booster be available?
The spring vaccination programme will start on 13th April and will run until 30th June.
In Thetford, there will be two dedicated vaccination clinics taking place at the Healthy Living Centre on the following dates:
- Saturday 18th April
- Saturday 25th April
These clinics will run throughout the day and are by booked appointment only.
Please note these are not walk in clinics, as only patients in the eligible groups above can receive the spring booster.
How will I be invited?
The surgery has already started contacting eligible patients.
If you are eligible, you will be contacted to arrange an appointment. There is no need to contact the surgery.
We kindly ask patients to wait to be contacted so that our phone lines remain available for patients who need medical help.
Please be aware that these clinics are for patients aged 18 years and older. Patients aged under 18 years old will need to attend dedicated covid clinic. These can be booked via the following link: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/
Is the vaccine safe?
Yes. All vaccines used in the UK are carefully tested and approved by the UK medicines regulator before they are offered to patients.
As with all vaccines, some people may experience mild side effects. The most common include:
• a sore arm where the injection was given
• feeling tired
• headache
• mild flu like symptoms
These side effects are usually mild and usually settle within a few days.
Can I still get covid after having the vaccine?
It is still possible to catch covid after vaccination. No vaccination is 100% effective.
However, the vaccine greatly reduces the chance of becoming seriously unwell or shortening the illness and reducing the severity of the symptoms.
Protection builds in the days after your vaccination, and it usually takes around two weeks for your immune system to respond fully.
What should I do if I feel unwell on the day of my appointment?
If you have a fever or feel too unwell to attend your appointment, please rearrange your booking.
If you only have mild cold symptoms and feel well enough, you can usually still attend your appointment.
Why is the booster important?
Protection from previous vaccination or infection can reduce over time. The spring booster helps strengthen your immunity and provides additional protection when you need it most.
For patients who are more vulnerable, this extra protection can significantly reduce the risk of serious illness.
If you are eligible for the spring booster, we strongly encourage you to take up the offer when invited. Vaccinations remain one of the most effective ways to protect yourself, your family, and the wider community.