NHS issues final call for Covid booster in Greater Manchester as new variant NB.1.8.1 spreads

Cases of a new Covid variant are spreading in England, health officials have confirmed

16:39, 06 Jun 2025

Health bosses have issued an urgent reminder(Image: PA)

Health bosses in Greater Manchester have issued an urgent reminder to those eligible for a Covid booster jab as a new variant spreads in the UK.

Called NB.1.8.1, the new 'Nimbus' variant made up roughly 10.7 per cent of all global infections by late April 2025 – up from just 2.5 per cent four weeks prior, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

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The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) confirmed on Thursday (June 5) that at least 13 cases of the virus have been detected in England.

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Covid vaccines are expected to remain effective against the new variant NB.1.8.1 and help to protect against severe disease, the WHO says.

Nurse Sonia Wilson (right) vaccinates eighteen-year-old Cameron Ladd (left) with the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccination

Those eligible for Covid-19 booster jabs can get vaccinated before June 17(Image: PA)

NHS Greater Manchester is urging those at highest risk of getting seriously ill from the Covid-19 virus to get their free spring booster vaccination this spring.

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It said only around 40 per cent of more than 310,000 eligible residents have had the jab so far. With just two weeks before the spring vaccination programme closes, it urges those most at risk to book an appointment before the closing date on June 17.

Those eligible for the booster include anyone:

Aged 75 or over – including those who will be 75 by June 17 this year
aged six months old to 74 years old with a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
who lives in a care home for older adults

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a dose of the new Moderna spikevax autumn Covid booster vaccination

Covid jabs can help to protect against severe disease(Image: PA)

Dr Helen Wall, Clinical Director for Population Health at NHS Greater Manchester said: "I would urge everyone who is eligible to get their COVID-19 spring booster vaccine.

"COVID-19 is still around and can be life-threatening for the most vulnerable people, which is why it’s so important that everyone who can gets vaccinated.

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"The vaccine continues to provide the best protection against complications and being admitted to hospital from COVID-19, so please make sure you get vaccinated when offered and encourage loved ones who are eligible to do the same. It will not only keep you safe, but the people around you."

Those eligible have until Monday (June 16) to book their spring booster appointment and until June 17 to attend an appointment.

Vaccinations can be booked through the National Booking Service, calling 119 or on the NHS App. For help booking a vaccination appointment call the Greater Manchester Care Gateway Team on 0161 947 0770 or 0800 092 4020.

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There are still walk-in appointments available across Greater Manchester at a number of local sites, such as clinics in Bolton, Trafford, Wigan, Rochdale, Salford and Bury.