NHS chiefs have announced that 80 per cent of eligible people living in the South West have received their booster jabs and that 12 million vaccinations have been given in the region since the COVID-19 vaccine rollout began in December, 2020.
The milestones have been reached as NHS staff and volunteers continue to deliver life-saving booster jabs over the New Year weekend to ensure people get maximum protection against Omicron.
Dr Michael Marsh South West Medical Director NHS England and NHS Improvement urged anyone who is due a booster, first or second dose to take advantage of the roll out:
“Why not start the New Year with a resolution to keep healthy and get a life-saving booster jab? It’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against Omicron. Also if you haven’t had your first or second dose yet, please come forward as it’s not too late and we would be pleased to see you.”
Booking is best via the National Booking Service but plenty of sites are offering walk-in vaccinations too.
Experts have warned that while, the first or second dose can help, only boosters provide the protection people really need against Omicron.
Rachel Pearce Director of Commissioning NHS England and NHS Improvement South West said: “I would like to thank vaccinators, volunteers and all those who have helped protect 80 per cent of eligible adults with the booster jab. I would encourage anyone not already boosted to come forward and start the New Year in the safest way.”
Every eligible adult can now book in for their all-important jab online and, given that some sites remain busy, the NHS is encouraging people to book to guarantee their slot.
More than seven in ten eligible people, aged 18 and over, have now received their top-up protection against Covid-19, and over half of all people in their 30s who are eligible have also had their life-saving booster.
Every adult is eligible for a jab three months after their second, following updated guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
In line with JCVI guidance, the NHS cannot vaccinate people who have tested positive for Covid-19 in the last 28 days, and people in this group should book their appointment for once 28 days has passed.