Millions of people in England are now eligible to book their NHS Covid booster appointments, as the government rolls out its plan to offer extra jabs to the most vulnerable groups. With the emergence of new virus variants, and the upcoming winter season, the booster programme aims to provide an added layer of protection to those who have already received two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine. This latest development in the fight against the pandemic is expected to boost the country’s immunity levels and help prevent further outbreaks. In this article, we’ll explore the latest guidance on Covid-19 boosters, who is eligible, and how to book your appointment.
The NHS has announced that millions of people are now eligible for a Covid-19 booster as hundreds of thousands of vaccination appointments have become available to book. Approximately 5 million people are able to receive a booster until the end of June, with the first vaccinations starting from Monday across 3,000 locations in England. The eligible population includes individuals aged 75 and over, those with weakened immune systems, and anyone over the age of five. The care home vaccination programme, which began two weeks ago, is also included. Over 725,000 Covid vaccination boosters still remain available for this week, with over 320,000 appointments already booked through the NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme.
The NHS has sent 1.25 million invitations through the NHS app, where appointments can be made directly. An additional 1 million people will be asked to book a vaccine appointment this week if they have not already done so. Text messages, emails and letters will also be sent to those without the app or who are not actively using it. Those who believe they are eligible but have not received an invite can self-declare via the national booking service and then consult with a clinician on site.
Covid-19 hospital admissions remain highest among those over 75-years-old, with a rate of 34.9 admissions for every 100,000 people aged 75-84 and a rate of 74.5 admissions for every 100,000 individuals aged 85 and above. Rates have fallen in recent weeks but remain significantly above those for other age groups.
The NHS England director for vaccinations and screening, Steve Russell, has emphasised the crucial role of the Covid vaccine in protecting those at greatest risk of severe illness. He said that it is great to see that around 320,000 people have booked a jab and that there are hundreds of thousands of further slots available across the country during this week alone. Russell urged anyone eligible for this extra protection to get their Covid vaccination at the earliest opportunity for peace of mind this summer.
Individuals invited for the booster should ensure that their appointment takes place at least three months after the previous dose. The last spring vaccination appointments will be on 30 June, with more targeted seasonal campaigns likely in the future. Covid-19 vaccinations for anyone with a weakened immune system who was five or over on 31 August 2022 will also end following recent advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation indicated earlier this year that the spring booster campaign could comprise vaccinations with the Pfizer, Moderna and Sanofi-GSK jabs. The Novavax jab will be available for use only when alternatives are deemed unsuitable. Children under 12 will be offered a children’s formulation of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine, and the vaccine received will depend on local supply.
As the UK continues its efforts to combat the Covid-19 pandemic, the NHS has announced that booster appointments for eligible people are now available. This rollout of appointments will provide an extra layer of protection to millions of people in England and help reduce the impact of Covid-19 on the population. The NHS is urging people to come forward for their booster dose as soon as possible, as this will help reduce the risk of severe illness or hospitalisation caused by Covid-19. As we navigate these uncertain times, it is reassuring to know that the NHS is steadfastly committed to ensuring the health and well-being of the population, and these booster appointments are just one example of their tireless efforts to keep us safe. Let’s all continue to do our part in the fight against Covid-19 by keeping ourselves informed, following safety guidelines, and getting vaccinated or boosted when it is our turn. Together, we can beat this pandemic.
