The NHS in Lancashire and South Cumbria has given a second COVID-19 vaccination to more than half of eligible 12-to-15-year-olds to help protect them from the effects of coronavirus.

More than 26,654 young people – 54.9% of those who had their first dose before Christmas – have had their second dose at school or a community vaccination site during the first three months of this year.

Vaccination teams have been visiting schools since the start of term to offer second doses to those eligible, as well as first doses for those who missed the first round of vaccinations. Parents can also take their children to a range of vaccination sites to get their first or second doses.

NHS vaccine leads said they were encouraged to see so many young people taking up the maximum protection of both doses and urged parents to keep bringing their children forward to be vaccinated.

Jane Scattergood, COVID-19 Vaccination Programme Senior Responsible Officer for Lancashire and South Cumbria, said: “With COVID-19 cases still rising for school-aged children in many parts of the country, the vaccine is the most important protection children and young people can get.

“Whether you choose to book an appointment, visit a walk-in site, or take up the school vaccination offer, please ensure that your child has the maximum two doses, for the very best protection.

“Our children have had so much disruption to their education through COVID-19 and getting them fully vaccinated is the best way to ensure they can stay in school – continuing their education and being with their friends.”

All children aged 12 to 15 are eligible for a second dose of vaccine if it has been more than 12 weeks since their first jab, or 12 weeks following a positive COVID-19 test result – whichever is later. If children miss their COVID-19 vaccination, for any reason, they will be able to have it at a later date.

Following advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation on 22 December 2021, the NHS is contacting those aged 12 to 15 in a clinical risk group or who live with someone who is immunosuppressed to invite them for their booster, which they can have three months after their second dose.

In line with national guidance, consent letters are sent out to parents and guardians prior to the school clinics with information on the COVID-19 vaccination.

Many parents and children are still coming forward for their first doses but, if you haven’t had a chance to book your child’s vaccination there are plenty of options available to you. You can book by calling 119, using the online booking service or turning up to one of our walk-in centres spread across the North West. You can find your nearest walk-in centre at NHS.UK