New statistics have revealed that over half of the adult population in the UK has now had their Covid booster vaccine.
The UK Covid booster vaccine programme was enhanced significantly this week, with the Covid booster jab being offered to everyone over the age of 18. Now, reports indicate that 26.3 million adults are now ‘boosted’ against COVID-19, making it one of the fastest vaccine rollouts in the world.
Covid booster vaccine protection
Research demonstrates that vaccines offer the most robust protection against COVID-19, and data from the UK Health Security Agency signifies that a Covid booster vaccine increases this protection from symptomatic infection from the Omicron variant to around 70%.
The UK government opened online booking for the Covid booster jab to those over 18 this week, in addition to walk-in sites across the country located at hospitals, pharmacies, pop-ups, and football stadiums.
Sajid Javid, the UK Secretary of State, said: “We’re making excellent progress in our national mission to get all adults in the UK boosted as soon as possible – but we need to go even further.
“Vaccines are our best shot at tackling the Omicron variant – and it is vital people come forward to protect themselves, their loved ones and their community this winter.
“It is very encouraging to see record-breaking milestones and booster bookings – but I urge all of those who have not yet done so to book their booster or find a walk-in centre to Get Boosted Now.”
Maggie Throup, the UK Vaccines Minister, said: “Thank you to everyone in the NHS, thousands of volunteers, the Armed Forces, and all those who have been involved or come forward for your booster already.
“We need everyone to step forward in this national mission to Get Boosted Now and get the best possible protection against the Omicron variant. Do not delay. Book your booster today – it might be the most important thing you do this winter.”
Advancing uptake
To speed up the rollout of the Covid booster jab, the UK government drafted 750 armed forces personnel to increase uptake. Additionally, tens of thousands of volunteers have supported the national mission, and extra vaccine centres and pop-up sites have opened to improve access.
Furthermore, the 15-minute observation following a Pfizer or Moderna booster vaccine was also temporarily suspended when clinically safe to do so. Anyone over the age of 18 can have their Covid booster vaccine three months after their second dose and can be booked one month in advance.
Dr Emily Lawson, head of the NHS vaccination programme, said: “Thanks to the dedication and determination of our NHS staff, aided by our fantastic volunteers, the NHS Covid Vaccination Programme has now given a vital booster to half of all eligible adults over 18 ahead of Christmas, including more than 21 million in England.
“As the NHS ramps up capacity to deliver boosters at an unprecedented rate, I would urge anyone yet to book in for their life-saving booster to do so at the earliest opportunity – it is the best way to guarantee yourself and your loved protections this winter.”
Booster bookings can be made by visiting online at www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-vaccination/book-coronavirus-vaccination/.
