FAQs
Below are the answers to some frequently asked questions about the Covid-19 vaccines and how it is administered. If you have a question that is not covered below, please email: cwicb.communications@nhs.net.
Why is it important to get further vaccinations?
People at increased risk of getting seriously ill are offered additional vaccinations to improve their protection from COVID-19. Like some other vaccines, levels of protection may decline over time.
Who can get a vaccination this Spring?
Following Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) guidance, the following groups of people will be offered a booster this spring:
- adults aged 75 and over
- residents in a care home for older adults
- people aged 5 and over who have a weakened immune system.
The NHS will contact you to invite you for your vaccination. Please wait to be contacted.
I’m eligible for a Spring vaccination – when will this be available?
The NHS will contact you to invite you for your vaccination. Please wait to be contacted.
The National Booking Service will open on Wednesday 5 April and vaccinations will start Monday 17 April and finish Friday 30 June.
How effective is the COVID-19 vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccination will reduce the chance of you suffering from COVID-19.
The COVID-19 vaccines have saved more than 100,000 lives and significantly reduced hospitalisations from COVID-19. The vaccination programme allows us to live with this virus without restrictions on our freedoms.
With both flu and COVID-19 expected to be circulating this winter, it’s important to boost your immunity and help protect yourself and others.
Is it a live vaccine?
No. The vaccine is created by replicating the proteins inside the virus artificially. You will not be given any amount of the live virus.
Does the vaccine cure COVID if you are positive?
No. You will also not be allowed the vaccine if you have COVID-19 symptoms or have tested positive the last 28 days.
Can I still catch COVID-19 after having the vaccine?
The COVID-19 vaccination will reduce the chance of you suffering from COVID-19 disease. It may take a few days for your body to build up some protection from the booster.
Like all medicines, no vaccine is a 100% guarantee of not catching the virus – some people may still get COVID-19 despite getting vaccinated but this should be less severe.
Can an appropriate adult e.g. a carer or healthcare professional book on my behalf?
Yes. However they will need to provide your NHS number (on your letter), your postcode and date of birth.
If a person does not have capacity to consent who can consent on their behalf?
Your next of kin or dedicated carer can provide consent.
If I don’t have access to transport, will you come to me?
If you are housebound as you are immobile you can be vaccinated in your home. However, if you are able to use a bus/taxi you will be expected to make your own way to a vaccination centre.
Will my GP/hospital team know I have been vaccinated?
Your GP record will be updated via the national system once your vaccine is given. If you are under the care of a consultant at a hospital, they will also be able to see that you have had the vaccine.
Where will my data be stored?
Your vaccination details will be held on the national database of vaccination records. This is the same database that flu vaccinations and other immunisation programme such as BCG and meningitis vaccinations are recorded on.
I don’t think I can have mRNA vaccines. How can I get an alternative vaccine?
You are advised to make a booking in the usual way. You can discuss your individual circumstances with the medical professional at your appointment in the first instance.
In rare cases where individuals have had severe allergic reactions to mRNA vaccines in the past, local vaccination services may refer you to a specialist clinic where you could be offered Nuvaxovid as an alternative. This will only be in exceptional circumstances, where clinically appropriate.