Over one million people have received a spring COVID-19 booster vaccine in just over two weeks as part of the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme.
The COVID-19 booster vaccine works by strengthening protection against COVID-19 and its variants. Although it is possible to become infected following the COVID-19 booster vaccine, you are less likely to become seriously ill.
The spring COVID-19 booster vaccine drive is a key component in successfully protecting the nation from infection. The effort follows the latest ONS coronavirus infection survey, which demonstrates that infection rates have continued to rise, including in older groups and every part of the country in recent weeks.
The NHS is continuing to invite people for their fourth dose, depending on their eligibility, in line with JCVI guidance, and 570,000 people will be invited in the week commencing 11th April 2022.
COVID-19 booster vaccine drive
Around two million invites have been sent for the spring COVID-19 booster vaccine drive to those eligible, including people aged 75 and over, adult care home residents and those who are immunosuppressed age 12 and over.
Dr Nikki Kanani, GP and deputy lead for the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme said: “Thanks to the efforts of our staff, it is fantastic that more than one million people who are most vulnerable to Covid have been quick to take up their offer of a spring vaccination in just over two weeks, giving them the best protection from the virus.
“As infections continue to rise, it is vital that those who are most vulnerable act on their invite as soon as possible, with over half a million more due to land on doorsteps next week.”
Recent research from the UK Health Security Agency demonstrated that the NHS booster programme has helped prevent around 197,000 hospitalisations since mid-December 2021. Additionally, a report from the National Audit Office has said the NHS Vaccination Programme met “stretching and unprecedented targets,” as it helped save lives and reduce hospital admissions – all while making effective use of public money.
A vital precautionary measure
The spring COVID-19 booster vaccine can be administered by professionals at community pharmacies, vaccination centres, and hospital hubs to those most vulnerable to coronavirus following the updated guidance from the JCVI.
To make the process of getting the spring COVID-19 booster vaccine, the NHS will send either a letter from a GP team, or specialist, inviting them for a vaccine, a hospital or GP letter about their medication or treatment, or a prescription or medication box with their name and date on it. Furthermore, individuals that are susceptible to COVID-19 have been advised to receive a booster vaccine around six months after their previous dose.
Steve Russell, National Director for Vaccinations concluded: “The NHS Covid vaccination programme began rolling out spring jabs just over two weeks ago to those who are more at risk from COVID to ensure they are given the best possible protection.
“NHS teams in vaccination centres, primary care and high street pharmacies have pulled out all the stops to get their communities protected and it is a testament to their fantastic efforts that in such a short space of time more than one million people have had a booster.
“The NHS will continue to invite people when they are due for a vaccination so, please come forward when we contact you.”
