Millions of eligible people across England have come forward for their Covid autumn booster, with over 17 million jabs given since the programme began in September 2022. The booster programme aimed to give people aged 50 and over, residents in care homes, people in an at-risk group, and health and social care staff the protection they need from serious illness and ease pressure on the NHS.
The uptake of the autumn booster was high, with over 64% of people aged 50 and over taking up the offer. The programme ended on 12th February, but tens of thousands of people responded to the call from the Chief Medical Officer and NHSE England, with almost double the number of jabs administered in the final week compared to the previous seven days.
Health and Social Care Secretary Steve Barclay praised the success of the Covid vaccination programme, which has helped to reduce hospital admissions and protect the most vulnerable from a serious illnesses. The success of the booster programme was attributed to the incredible efforts of professionals who worked tirelessly to get vaccines to those who need them, from local authority public health teams to front-line NHS staff.
While the Covid vaccination programme has been successful, eligible people, including pregnant women, young children, and those with an underlying health condition, are reminded to come forward for their flu jab before the 31st of March. The latest data shows that 20.9 million eligible people have had their flu jab, but take-up is low among pregnant women and children aged two and three.
Flu levels continue to fall sharply, according to the UK Health Security Agency’s flu data, and people are advised not to pass it on by staying at home if they’re unwell and avoiding vulnerable people.
NHS director of vaccinations and screening, Steve Russell, thanked the NHS staff, volunteers, local government, and partners who have made the vaccine drive possible. He assured that the NHS would be ready to stand up for future campaigns to protect communities when given the green light.
The success of the Covid autumn booster programme is a testament to the commitment and hard work of healthcare professionals and the willingness of eligible people to do their part in protecting themselves and their loved ones. With continued efforts, the UK is on the path towards a healthier and safer future.
Source: Gov[Dot]UK
