As the Covid booster programme began taking bookings for those in their 40s, more Britons were now eligible to receive Covid vaccines.
Additional 8million adults aged between 40-49 who have been double-vaccinated may be eligible for an appointment to get their third dose for up to six months.
You can either book through the NHS Booking Service website or call 119. The data shows that the third dose of top-up protection against symptomsatic Covid is above 90%.
Sajid Javid Health Secretary said vaccines were the best way to protect the UK from being infected with the spread of infection across Europe.
Teens aged 16 and 17 – who previously were only eligible for one dose – can also now book their second Covid vaccine.
The second shot will be administered 12 weeks later to older teenagers, as evidence shows that side effects are less likely in those who have had their first vaccination.
While they were investigating reports of young heart inflammation, officials delayed making a decision about the second dose.
More than half (16 and 17) have already opted for the first jab.
Millions of Britons today became eligible to receive Covid vaccines after the booster programme began accepting bookings for those in their 40s (file).
As a result of the new wave of Delta variant, many European countries are forced to reinstate draconian social controls and lockdowns.
Britain may be reaping the benefits of having all its curbs released earlier than other continents over the summer. This is because it has frontloaded the infections.
Mr. Javid stated that obtaining your Covid booster vaccination is the best way for you and your family to stay safe during winter. This will reduce pressure on the NHS.
“While the government continues to monitor various data to ensure that the country is protected, we have unfortunately seen an increase of cases in certain parts of Europe.
‘The most important thing we can do to stop a similar rise in this country is get the jab – so please get your vaccines as soon as you can so we can keep the virus at bay.’
Maggie Throup, Minister of Vaccines, said: ‘We have to protect the gains that we made this winter through our vaccination program. I ask everyone to make it happen.
“Please make sure you get your winter boosters as soon as you are eligible.
Last week, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation approved booster vaccines for Britons aged 40 and older.
They said that anyone could approach them with the confidence they were safe and efficient.
A study by the UK Health Security Agency found that people who receive a third shot have 80% less chance of developing symptomatic Covid symptoms than those who got their second spring dose.
Although it is not possible to assess the impact on deaths and hospitalizations, officials claim that protection will be even greater.