COVID-19 booster jabs are now available for a new group of people.

People aged 75 and over, those aged above 12 who are immunosuppressed and residents in care homes for older adults are able to receive an additional booster this spring.

The NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme has begun inviting eligible people to come forward for their spring booster jabs, with thousands across Sussex having already received the additional protection.

A Sussex Covid-19 vaccination programme spokeswoman said: “This is different to the eligible groups for the first booster over winter, following guidance from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

“The JCVI has advised a spring jab should be offered to those most vulnerable to Covid-19 as a precautionary measure around six months on from their previous dose.”

The booster can be booked and received at any point from three months after your winter booster, but a six-month interval gives longer protection through the summer.

The spokeswoman added: “Vaccines remain a vital line of defence against Covid-19, and with hundreds of thousands of Spring booster appointments available over the coming weeks, it’s never been easier to come forward.

“Covid-19 may affect you more seriously if you are in one of these groups. The spring booster is being offered to help reduce your risk of getting seriously ill from Covid-19.

“If you are in one of the eligible groups for a spring booster, please come forward and arrange your appointment. Make sure you receive this additional protection.

“There are thousands of appointments available every week at our local sites through the National Booking Service so you will be able to find a day and time that works for you.”