England’s leading NHS medical professional has urged members of the public who are eligible for their spring booster to come forward, with infection rates rising and the health sector continuing with the largest and fastest vaccination programme in NHS history.
The NHS are inviting over five million people to get their next booster jab, including those who are aged 75 and over, care home residents, and the immunosuppressed as per JCVI guidance. More than four million people – equating to approximately 86% – of those aged 75 and above have already had their spring dose.
Around 250,000 reminders will be sent over text, email, or letter before the end of the month urging people to get their jabs, so people have enough time before the next autumn jab that will reinforce an individual’s protection throughout the winter.
NHS Medical Director Professor, Sir Stephen Powis, said: “The recent rise in Covid infection levels in England acts as a timely reminder that it is crucial those who are eligible come forward for their spring jab and get themselves protected.
“Well over four in five people aged 75 and over have come forward for a spring booster so far and I would urge anyone who hasn’t to get their spring jab as soon as possible.
“The spring dose will not only give you and your loved ones protection this summer amid rising infection levels, but also allow you to get a vaccine this autumn at the right time to maximise your protection over winter. This is particularly important for people who are immunosuppressed.”
Data from the UK Health Security Agency indicates that the NHS booster programme has prevented approximately 186,000 hospitalisations between December and March, whilst a report from the National Audit Office praised the NHS vaccination programme, saying how it met “stretching and unprecedented targets” as it tackled the biggest health crisis in a generation.
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “Our world-leading vaccine programme is allowing us to live with the virus. Over four million people have already come forward for their important booster jab, but it is vital for everyone eligible to get boosted now to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
More information about the booster appeal is available here.
