Covid vaccine spring booster: How at-risk groups in Leeds can get an extra booster dose from today - and who is eligible

Experts have said that the extra dose will help the most vulnerable stay protected against severe Covid-19 symptoms.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation said that vaccinating these groups was only a "precautionary" measure and did not mean there was any increase in danger to their wellbeing.

Until today (21 March) only people with weakened immune systems had been eligible for a second booster dose.

Below is everything you need to know about the fourth dose, or second booster, and who is eligible.

Who is eligible for a fourth dose of the vaccine?

Those now being offered a second booster from today are:

adults aged 75 years and over

residents in a care home for older adults

individuals aged 12 years and over who are immunosuppressed

What type of vaccine is the fourth booster dose?

Adults will be offered a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, while children aged 12 to 18 will receive Pfizer.

The vaccine must be administered at least six months after the first booster dose.

Where can I get the fourth dose in Leeds?

If you're eligible, a GP or your hospital specialist should contact you to let you know you can get a 4th dose.

You may also get a letter from the NHS advising that you may be eligible and to discuss this with your doctor.

You'll usually get vaccinated at your local hospital or a local NHS service such as a GP surgery.

A full list of sites in Leeds offering vaccinations is available on the NHS website.

Can I book my fourth dose online?

If you're aged 12 or over, you can also book your 3rd dose or booster (4th dose) appointment online.You'll need to bring with you either:

* a letter from your GP or hospital specialist inviting you for a 3rd dose or booster (4th dose)

* a hospital letter that describes the condition or treatment that caused you to have a severely weakened immune system at the time of your 1st or 2nd dose

* a prescription or a medicine box with your name and the date showing when the medicine was prescribed – this must show that you had a severely weakened immune system at the time of your 1st or 2nd dose

If you think you’re eligible for a 3rd dose or booster (4th dose) but you do not have a suitable letter, prescription or medicine box, you may still be able to get your vaccination.

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