The government is now offering doses of Covid-19 vaccine to anyone in Kent who is aged over six months and has a weakened immune system.

Care home residents and anyone aged 75 and over are also eligible to book a place in the spring vaccination programme.

In last year’s spring vaccinations, immunosuppressed children had to be aged five and upwards to get the booster.

Although the age range has lowered, fewer people overall are eligible for a booster compared to autumn, after new advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

Dr Ash Peshen, deputy chief medical director at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “Vaccines are vital for protecting the population of Kent and Medway.

“Covid is still prevalent and a risk for vulnerable people this spring so my message is clear, please have your Covid vaccine.”

Kent County Council is also urging anyone eligible to book a jab appointment on the NHS website or via telephone. There are also a number of walk-in vaccination centres across the county.

The council’s deputy director of public health, Dr Ellen Schwartz, said: “We are learning to live with Covid-19 but the virus hasn’t gone away.

“It’s still important for our most elderly residents and people with a weakened immune system to top up their protection as they are most at risk from getting seriously unwell and requiring hospital treatment.”