Jabs before return to school for those aged 16 and 17

THE first dose of the coronavirus vaccine will be offered to all 16 and 17-year-olds in England, the Health Secretary has announced.

The jabs are set to be extended to them on Monday, August 23, ahead of their return to schools in September.

Tens of thousands of people in this age group have already been vaccinated at local sites and walk-in centres across the country.

Those in the age bracket will now be receiving texts and letters to book their appointments and can then visit one of more than 800 Gp-led local vaccination spots.

NHS England has also launched a new online walk-in site finder to help people locate a centre close to them.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “It is brilliant to see tens of thousands of young people have already received their vaccine – thank you for helping to further build our wall of defence against Covid-19 across the country.

“I have asked the NHS in England to ensure they offer a first dose of the vaccine to everyone aged 16 and 17 by next Monday August 23, thus will make sure everybody has the opportunity to get vital protection before returning to college or sixth form.

Please don’t delay – get your jabs as soon as you can so we can continue to safely live with this virus and enjoy our freedoms by giving yourself, your family and your community the protection they need.” Children aged 12 to 15 who are vulnerable to Covid-19 or who live with adults with serious health risks will also be contacted by the NHS to book their vaccine.

Around 100,000 texts are being sent to those eligible to book their jabs.

Those within three months of turning 18 can book their appointments online through the National Booking Service or by calling 119.

Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi said: “Young people have shown great enthusiasm to get their vaccines and this has allowed us to safely enjoy the things we have missed, such as going to the pub or seeing family and friends.

“Thank you to the NHS and volunteers for your continued dedication to protect people from this virus.

“I urge everybody else to get their vaccines as soon as possible.”