As schools across Merton break up for the summer holidays, families are urged to make sure adults in the household get their COVID-19 vaccinations.

Whether you plan to travel in the UK or abroad, catch up with friends and relatives or visit leisure venues, being vaccinated is an essential item on your summer to-do list.

The COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective and will protect you from coronavirus, helping you stay well if you’re taking time off during the holiday period. And if you’ve had both doses of the vaccine, the NHS COVID Pass can be shown to travel abroad, or at events and venues across England.

All adults aged 18+ can receive the vaccine, by booking an appointment on the NHS website, calling 119 or dropping in to one of the walk-in clinics happening across Merton. People can have their second dose vaccine eight weeks after their first – so this week you can have your second dose if you were vaccinated on 28 May or before.

Walk-in clinics are taking place over the coming week at the Wilson Hospital in Mitcham, the Nelson Health Centre in Wimbledon Chase, Centre Court shopping centre in Wimbledon, AFC Wimbledon vaccination centre at Plough Lane and Morden Assembly Hall. For dates, times and which vaccines are available, as well as many more options across south west London, visit our website.

We have walk-ins operating from early in the morning until evening, so you can fit in your jab, whether you’re working or taking time off. In most cases there are no queues, and the process takes less half an hour. If you’re not sure what to expect, watch this film, shot on location at Centre Court vaccination centre. We’d advise eating before you come to the centre and, especially during hot weather, bringing water.

If you have any questions or concerns about the vaccine, please do pop in to one of our clinics and talk to our friendly staff. We’ll be happy to chat, with no pressure to have the vaccine.  And if you’re anxious about needles, we can help with that too – read more here.

Once you’ve had your jab, your vaccination status can be shown on the NHS COVID Pass via the NHS App. You may be asked to show your pass to travel abroad or at events and venues in England which ask for proof of your COVID-19 status. Find out more about the NHS COVID Pass here.

If you’re planning to travel abroad, always check the entry requirements for the country you’re visiting and read more here.

So why not tick the COVID vaccine off your summer to-do list today?