More than three million top up COVID-19 jabs have been delivered in just four weeks, as the NHS vaccination rollout continues.
A total of 3.1 million top ups have been administered with two in five people aged 50 and over who are eligible already coming forward for their extra jab. More than a third of health and care workers who are eligible have also had their booster vaccine.
‘We’ve already seen a fantastic response to the booster vaccination programme, with over three million doses already given, so if you are waiting to get that vital protection please come forward today,’ said Dr Nikki Kanani, GP and Deputy Lead for the NHS COVID-19 Vaccination Programme.
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‘I’ve had my vaccine already in the local pharmacy and it was really straightforward, so when you get that important invite please come forward and protect yourself and your family this winter.’
Currently around 6.5 million people in England are eligible for a booster including health and care workers, those with underlying health conditions and people aged 50 and over.
People who are eligible will be invited for their booster shot at least six months on from their second dose, in line with independent expert advice – the number of people who are eligible changes daily as additional people reach six months since their second jab.
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‘NHS staff and volunteers continue to do an amazing job delivering our phenomenal vaccine rollout, and it is excellent to see that three million people have already come forward for booster vaccines and third doses in England alone,’ said Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid.
‘Boosters are continuing to reinforce the wall of defence that vaccines have built across the country and will provide vital protection to millions – it will help keep the virus at bay. I urge all those eligible for a top-up dose to get yours as soon as possible to not only protect yourself, but also to keep your loved ones safe from this virus.’