THE NHS is sending letters to every 16 and 17-year-old as they are now eligible for the Covid vaccine.

Around 1m letters will be sent to the age groups across England inviting them to take up their jab ahead of their return to school and sixth form.

It comes as all 16 and 17-year-olds in the North East this week became eligible to have their Covid jab at six mass vaccination sites without an appointment.

The NHS said that follow-up text messages tomorrow (August 20) will also be sent as it revealed GPs were now inviting those 'at-risk' aged between 12 and 15 to have the jab.

The Government has already confirmed that 16 and 17-year-olds do not need adult consent when going for their Covid vaccine.

'The vaccine is safe'

Professor Sir Keith Willett, Head of the COVID-19 Vaccination programme in England, said: “Thanks to the dedication and hard work of NHS staff, and the teenagers who have already come forward for their jabs, the NHS has administered more than 125,000 first doses of the Covid-19 vaccine to 16 and 17-year olds, protecting themselves, their families, and their friends from the virus. 

“The vaccine is safe and effective with nearly nine in 10 adults already taking up the offer, and I would urge anyone eligible, especially those 16 and 17-year-olds heading back into education or training, to get their life-saving jab.”

What North East health bosses say

In the North East, those over the age of 16 can get their Covid vaccine without an appointment.

Professor Neil Watson, who has been leading the Covid-19 Vaccination programme for the North East and North Cumbria said there had been an incredible response to the vaccine rollout.

He said: “As young people prepare for their next steps, head to college, university or into their first full-time jobs, it is vital they get protection from coronavirus by getting their vaccine in line with updated guidance.

“Whether you are out and about enjoying your summer break before classes start or starting a new job it has never been easier to get your vaccine.”

This is where you can receive your Covid vaccine if you are 16 and over without appointment

- Centre for Life, Newcastle - 9am to 6pm, 7 days

- Durham Arnison Centre to 8:15am - 7:00pm, 7 days

- Darlington Arena - 8:15am to 7:30pm, 7 days

- Hexham Auction Mart - 8:15am to 7:00pm, (Tuesday - Saturday inc)

- NHS Nightingale Hospital North East - 9am to 6pm, 7 days

- Middlesbrough Riverside - w/c August 23, 10am - 6pm (Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday)    

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