A life-saving booster jab is now available for those people who are most at risk from Covid-19.
Following the updated advice from the Joint Committee of Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI), the NHS has launched the next phase of the Covid-19 vaccination programme. This Autumn Booster programme will be using an updated vaccine that protects against the original virus and also the Omicron variant.
Autumn Booster jabs are being offered to everyone aged 50 and over as well as those who are at highest risk from serious illness such as pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions as well as frontline health and social care workers. In the first instance, over 75s and frontline health and social care workers are being called forward to book an appointment, with jabs being administered from 12 September.
As with previous vaccination phases, the oldest and most vulnerable are being called forward first, with people able to book in online or through 119, as long as it has been three months since their last dose. Once the most vulnerable have booked an appointment, the remaining eligible groups will then begin to be called forward.
Amanda Sullivan, Chief Executive of NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “It is fantastic news that the Autumn Booster has been made available and I would urge everyone who is eligible to book an appointment when invited to do so.
“This vaccine is a chance to top up your immunity against Covid-19 and the Omicron strain, it is important we make sure we have done our bit to protect ourselves ahead of the Winter months where we know Covid-19 and flu will be co-circulating.
“Our staff have been working very hard to prepare for this next stage of the Vaccination Programme and we have plenty of sites across the city and county that are offering appointments. Please book on the NHS website or via 119 to make sure you get a timely appointment.”
The public can book an appointment for an Autumn Booster by calling 119 or using the NHS website. Please book an appointment when you are invited to do so.