Half of eligible people aged 50 and over have already received their Covid booster jab in England, as the biggest and fastest vaccination programme in NHS history continues.
More than five million people in total have received their booster, including those who are clinically vulnerable.
This includes 4,547,927 people over the age of 50 who have received a top up in protection in less than six weeks as part of the NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme.
Last week also saw record bookings for boosters using the National Booking Service with nearly 900,000 people booking in their booster jab, a 42% increase on the previous week of booster bookings.
A further two million invites are being sent out by the NHS this week as more people become eligible as they reach the six month mark.
The NHS is vaccinating in line with guidance set by the JCVI which says that eligible groups can have a booster shot, a minimum of six months on from their second jab for maximum protection.
Dr Nikki Kanani, NHS deputy vaccination programme lead, said: “It’s fantastic to see such enthusiasm for the NHS booster campaign as record numbers have come forward and either booked or received their vital vaccination, joining myself and millions of others who have already had our vital top-up.
“Thanks to the huge efforts of staff half of over 50s are already protected – a remarkable achievement in such a short space of time.
“The booster is not a nice to have – it is really important you come forward for yours as soon as you become eligible, at least six months on from your second jab, giving you and your loved ones extra protection over the winter months.”
Anyone eligible for a booster who is 190 days on from their second dose can go online and book through NHS Digital’s booking service or call 119 if they need extra support with their booking.
The NHS will contact you to offer you a booster vaccine if you are eligible and it has been at least six months (182 days) since the date of your second vaccine dose. Anyone receiving an invite should come forward as soon as possible to get crucial protection.
In line with JCVI guidance, those who are eligible for a booster at least six months on from their second dose include:
- Those living in residential care homes for older adults.
- All adults aged 50 years or over.
- Frontline health and social care workers.
- Those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the green book), and adult carers.
- Adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals.
