The self-referral booking system for Covid-19 vaccination has been extended to pharmacy staff in England for a limited time, according to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS).

The service, set up by NHS England, was initially introduced for social care workers, and has now been extended to ensure that all frontline healthcare workers who want the vaccine can receive it.

RPS said pharmacy teams can sign up using the National Booking Service on the NHS website or by calling 119. Those who self-refer will be asked to self-certify that they are eligible when booking and provide proof when attending the appointment.

However, the service is only expected to remain open to healthcare staff for a limited time, it added.

Claire Anderson, chair of the English Pharmacy Board, said: ‘Pharmacists and their teams continue to work hard to support patients during the pandemic, so it’s important that they are protected from the virus.

‘The vaccines that we have available are highly effective at reducing infection rates and preventing serious illness. If you haven’t received your first dose of the vaccine yet, make sure to book an appointment as soon as possible through this service.’

It comes after the Government revealed preliminary plans for a Covid-19 revaccination campaign.