Region's booster jab figures top three million
More than three million people in the North East and Yorkshire have now received a Covid booster jab, according to new figures.
NHS chiefs are calling on more people to come forward as soon as eligible for their jab as it gears up to combat a rise in the Omicron variant of the virus.
With vaccination teams at hospital hubs, GPs clinics and community pharmacies continuing to jab thousands of people in the region each day, the NHS say a third, booster jab prevents around 75% of people getting Covid symptoms.
Dr Yvette Oade, NHS Clinical Lead for the Covid-19 vaccination programme for North East and Yorkshire, said: “The booster vaccine significantly improves people’s level of protection against the new variant.
"So getting the jab as soon as you’re eligible is the best Christmas present people can give themselves and their families.
“Thanks to the hard work of health service staff and our wonderful volunteers, the NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme in the North East and Yorkshire has now delivered 3.2million booster doses.”
She added: “But we need everyone to play their part in the regional and national mission to protect the country. If you have already booked your booster jab appointment for January, please consider bringing it forward, if eligible, to get vital protection against the virus as quickly as possible.”
Nationally, the NHS vaccination programme is offering every adult the chance to book a Covid-19 booster vaccine by the end of the year.
To book a booster through the National Booking Service, call 119.