Residents urged to take up covid vaccine booster

PEOPLE in Staffordshire are being reminded of the different booster doses of the Covid-19 vaccine.

There are three types of the booster vaccine available that all offer people a top-up to the protection provided by their initial vaccines or booster. These are: a booster dose for everyone aged 16 and over, and some children aged 12 to 15, who have had a second dose of the vaccine at least three months ago

a booster dose for anyone who had a severely weakened immune system when they had their first two doses and who had an additional third dose of the vaccine at least three months ago

a spring booster for people aged 75 and over, people who live in a care home for older people, or people aged 12 and over who have a weakened immune system.

Dr Johnny Mcmahon, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care, has reminded those eligible that it’s not too late to get boosted: “If you’ve not had your booster dose yet, you are still eligible and can book or attend a walk-in clinic offering the jab at any time.

“Although we’re now well into spring and Covid restrictions have been lifted, we must not forget that this virus can still cause some people serious health problems and I particularly want to stress the importance of those older and more vulnerable getting fully protected. Please check you are up-to-date with your boosters and if you have family or friends who are eligible but are still waiting, please encourage and support them however you can to get boosted and get protected.”

People eligible for a spring booster will be contacted by the NHS by letter or text and are advised to bring either of these to a walk-in vaccine clinic if going to get the spring booster.

■ More information on the Covid-19 booster and how to book an appointment, can be found at www.nhs.uk/coronavirusvaccine.

Details on local walk-in clinics offering the booster can be found at www.nhs.uk/grab-a-jab.