England has launched a new Covid-19 booster campaign for those at the highest risk of the disease, including people over the age of 75, residents of adult care homes, and individuals with certain underlying health conditions. The campaign aims to provide a free shot to boost their protection against the virus, which still spreads widely through populations and can cause serious illness, hospitalization, and death. Mary Ramsay, who leads immunizations at the UK Health Security Agency, emphasized the importance of getting the jab to top up immunity against the circulating virus, especially for older individuals and those with weakened immune systems.
In addition to the public booster campaign, for the first time, private vaccines are also available in the UK. Individuals over the age of 12 can now pay for a shot from major high street pharmacy chain Boots, community pharmacies, and private clinics. The cost of private shots ranges from £45 to £99, depending on the brand and seller. Currently, Pfizer and Novavax vaccines are on offer for private customers. Pharmadoctor, a company assisting community pharmacies with vaccine delivery, reported administering over 1,500 Pfizer doses, with 87% going to individuals who do not qualify for free shots.
The eligibility criteria for the booster shot include anyone aged 75 or older on or before June 30th of this year, residents of older adult care homes, and people with weakened immune systems. Eligible individuals can book their slot online or be contacted by the public health system. Shots will be administered by family doctors, at pharmacies, and walk-in centers, with vaccine teams visiting care homes to offer shots to willing residents. The vaccines significantly reduce the risk of severe complications, hospitalization, and death from Covid-19, especially among older individuals and those with specific health conditions. The UK government aims to provide free vaccines to vulnerable groups to maintain protection against the disease, with the campaign scheduled to run until June 30th.
Steve Russell, the national director for vaccinations and screening at England’s National Health Service, emphasized the continued danger of Covid-19, particularly for older individuals and those with weakened immune systems. He highlighted the importance of topping up protection, as immunity from prior vaccination or infection can wane over time. Russell emphasized the need for older individuals and those with weakened immune systems to get the vaccine as soon as possible to reduce the risk of severe illness and complications. The booster campaign aims to provide additional protection to those at higher risk of Covid-19 and maintain immunity against the virus circulating in the population.
With the Covid-19 virus still causing hospitalizations and severe illness, especially among older individuals and those with weakened immune systems, the booster campaign in England provides an opportunity for eligible individuals to enhance their protection against the disease. The availability of public and private shots offers flexibility in accessing the vaccine, with free shots provided to vulnerable groups to ensure continued immunity. The campaign aims to reduce the risk of serious complications and maintain protection against the circulating virus, ultimately contributing to the overall health and safety of the population. Patients are encouraged to take advantage of the booster campaign and prioritize their health by getting vaccinated against Covid-19.
