Somerset’s Covid-19 vaccination programme has reported high uptake in the first four weeks of the Autumn Booster campaign.
More than 300,000 people across the county are eligible for the booster with jabs being offered from 25 sites comprising of vaccination clinics, community pharmacies and some GP surgeries.
Since September 5th, adults in care homes, the housebound, clinically vulnerable, health and social care workers, pregnant women and those aged 65 or over have been invited to have their vaccinations.
As the programme continues people who are aged 50 and over will be invited to have the booster over the coming weeks.
With many of the clinics facing high demand, Gary Risdale, Programme Manager for the vaccination team, said: “We have been very encouraged to see such high interest in people coming forwards for their jabs already.
“While many of our clinics are fully booked each day, we are working hard to open as much capacity as possible and encourage people to persevere to make their appointments.
“Clinics will show up on the national booking service as soon as new appointments are available so it’s always worth checking. There are plenty of clinics across the county and our teams are working very hard to see as many people every day as possible.
“We can reassure people who are housebound or in a care home that we will be in touch, if not already, to visit them soon.
“We would also like to encourage family members, friends, or neighbours of the more elderly to offer to reach out and support them in either making their appointments or if needed in getting them to the clinic.
“As winter approaches we want to see as many people get vaccinated and protected as possible”.
Vaccinations are currently available by appointment only and eligible people can either call 119 or go online to book.
It is also not too late for people who have yet to have their vaccinations come forward. Appointments are available for first, second or initial boosters for adults and children who were aged 5+ before September 1st.