Get booster jabs so we can enjoy Christmas – Javid

 

UK: People should get their Covid booster jabs as part of a "national mission" to avoid restrictions over Christmas, Health Secretary Sajid Javid has said.

So far almost 10 million people in the UK have had a top-up jab, which Mr Javid said was a "phenomenal achievement".

But around 30% of over-80s and 40% of over-50s in England are yet to do so, according to government figures.

Mr Javid urged people to "play their part" to help get through the winter.

His comments come as NHS England prepares to invite another three million people for their booster jabs next week.

Booster jabs are available in the UK to anyone aged 50 and over, front-line health and social care workers and over-16s with some health conditions. They can get it six months - 182 days - after their second dose.

Mr Javid said: "We know immunity begins to wane after six months, especially for the elderly and the vulnerable, and booster vaccines will top-up their protection to keep people safe over the winter."

Where can I get my booster jab?

The health secretary called on younger relatives to support their parents, grandparents and loved ones in getting their Covid and flu jabs urgently.

"And if you haven't yet had your first and second vaccines, it is not too late," he said. "The NHS will always be there to welcome you with open arms.

"If we all come together and play our part, we can get through this challenging winter, avoid a return to restrictions, and enjoy Christmas." 

From Monday, people living in England can book their booster jabs a month in advance as part of efforts to accelerate the rollout.

Some 30 million people across the UK will eventually be eligible for a top-up jab.

NHS England said eight million people had received theirs so far, out of the 12 million who have been invited.

Meanwhile, reported cases of the virus continue to fall, with another 30,693 cases recorded on Saturday. A further 155 people died within 28 days of a positive test.