Although our recent research findings have shown that people with aplastic anaemia often respond well to the Coronavirus vaccine after receiving two doses, in late 2021, JCVI, the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation announced that people who are immunocompromised, and at a significantly increased risk of developing complications if they test positive for COVID-19 would be offered further doses of the vaccine.

Third primary dose - eight weeks after the second vaccine

In September 2021, it was announced that people with conditions such as aplastic anaemia would be offered a third primary dose of the vaccine in order to ensure that they received the best levels of protection. A third dose can be administered at least eight weeks after the second dose. 

Many members of our community have now reported that they have received their third primary dose, however, if this isn't the case, appointments for third primary doses can now be booked via the NHS booking service. You may also be invited by your GP or consultant.

It is important that you take some proof of eligibility for a third dose vaccination with you when you attend your appointment. This can be in the form of a letter from your GP or consultant explaining your diagnosis. Alternatively, we have produced a generic letter that explains what aplastic anaemia is, which is available at the bottom of this page.

Further booster dose - three months after the third primary dose

In December 2021, it was announced that people with severely weakened immune systems are eligible to receive a further booster dose of a Coronavirus vaccine, in addition to their third primary dose.

A booster dose can be given three months or 91 days after the third primary dose was given. 

Currently, in England, it isn't possible for people with weakened immune systems to book an appointment for an extra booster dose online. You may be invited for your booster dose by your GP or consultant.

In England, it is also possible to attend a walk-in vaccination centre to receive a booster dose. Again, it is important to take proof of eligibility with you, which can be in the form of a letter showing that you were eligible for a third primary dose. We have also produced a letter which may help you to do this, which is available below.

In Wales, third primary dose and booster vaccination appointments are coordinated by your local Health Board, and you should be invited for your vaccination automatically by then. If you do not receive an appointment, you should contact your local Health Board to rectify this.

In Scotland, NHS Scotland will get in touch with you directly to arrange a vaccination appointment. If you haven't received an appointment and believe that you should have done so, discuss this with your GP or consultant.

In Northern Ireland, 'fourth doses', or boosters following a third primary dose can be booked online. More information is available here.

How we can help

We understand that it can be quite confusing knowing when, and how to access your booster vaccinations. We hope that this information is helpful, but if you have any further questions or concerns, please feel free to get in touch with us at [email protected], or call our helpline on +44 (0)300 102 3202.

We have also produced a supporting letter that you can take with you to vaccination appointments, which explains what aplastic anaemia is your eligibility to receive a further vaccination. You can download the letter by clicking on the button below. Alternatively, if you would like to receive a printed copy, please get in touch with us and we can arrange for this to be sent out to you.

Download vaccination letter