Update on the COVID-19 spring vaccine for immunosuppressed people
COVID-19 News Newsletter - 25 May 2023
People with a weakened immune system
If you have a weakened immune system, you can get the COVID-19 spring vaccination by 30 June. This includes if:
- You have or previously had blood cancer (such as leukaemia, lymphoma or myeloma)
- You have had an organ, bone marrow or stem cell transplant
- You have HIV (at all stages)
- You have a genetic disorder affecting the immune system
- You are having a treatment such as biological therapy, chemotherapy or radiotherapy
- You are treated with certain medicines that increase your risk of infection, including strong steroids (such as azathioprine, dexamethasone, prednisolone, ciclosporin or mycophenolate, depending on your dosage)
- You are treated with long-term immunosuppressive medicines for conditions such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, scleroderma and psoriasis.
If you’re unsure if you have a weakened immune system, speak to your pharmacy team, GP practice or specialist for advice.
Eligibility guidance
Patients with a weakened immune system are being advised to bring an NHS letter describing the health condition or treatment that weakens their immune system, or a repeat prescription or a medicine box for the immunosuppressive medicines they are taking.
Health professionals are being encouraged to actively identify anyone under their care who may be eligible and provide information about COVID-19 vaccination.
Book a vaccination appointment
You can book by:
- Calling 119
- Using the NHS App
- Going online Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
If you book an appointment and then decide to go to a walk-in clinic or Living Well Bus, please just remember to cancel your appointment.
After 30 June 2023
- If you are eligible for a spring vaccination, or if you haven’t had your 1st or 2nd dose, the last date you will be able to get vaccinated is 30 June.
- After this date, you will only be eligible for a 1st or 2nd dose if you are at increased risk from COVID-19 and in most cases, you will have to wait until the autumn to get these vaccinations. If you develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens your immune system, an exception may be made if your clinician advises you to get vaccinated sooner.