Nottinghamshire residents reminded to wait for letter from NHS before calling about vaccine

In the next few weeks, over 80s will receive a letter from the NHS explaining how to book their appointment.

Health bosses have asked the public to wait until they have received their letter before contacting the NHS, their GP or local hospital hub.

Amanda Sullivan, accountable officer at Nottingham and Nottinghamshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “This is the biggest vaccination programme the NHS has ever undertaken.

"It is a huge challenge and one that has been rolled out at great pace.

"Our teams are working really hard but it’s important to remember this is only the first stage of the programme, so we are learning and improving as we go.

“We understand many people are keen to see their family get the vaccine as soon as possible to protect them from getting seriously ill.

"Unfortunately, details of how people over the age of 80 make their vaccine appointment have been shared and used among other, less vulnerable groups.

"If you see a message directed at an 80 year old or someone who is most at risk asking them to book to receive a vaccine, please don’t log on or pick up the phone unless you are calling on their behalf.

"We need to protect the appointments for those most in need.

“In time, everyone will be vaccinated so for now we are urging the public to work with us and be patient so we can first vaccinate those who need it most.”