London’s top doctor has renewed calls to vulnerable people in the capital to get their latest Covid-19 booster jab.
People aged over 75, or older care home residents, or with suppressed immune systems have been eligible for a fourth dose of the vaccine for two months already – but with summer here, and with it more socialising for many, the NHS is putting out a fresh reminder.
Dr Chris Streather, the medical director for the NHS in London, said: “The beginning of summer is just around the corner and we know this tends to be a period of increased social engagement, so it is indeed a good time to remind those Londoners who are most susceptible to Covid-19 to ensure they get their spring booster to stay protected.”
Some communities, like people of Pakistani and Bangladeshi origin, have had lower take-up of the vaccine. The vice-president of the British Islamic Medical Association urged eligible people to get the jab.
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Dr Salman Waqar said: “As we continue to learn to live with COVID, it’s equally important that we retain good practices, taking all reasonable steps to protect our health so we can carry on with our lives, doing what we love.
“For the most vulnerable among us including older people and those with a weakened immune system, this means they may need extra protection from the COVID-19 Spring booster vaccine. I am also acutely aware uptake of the vaccine is lower in some communities including people of Pakistani and Bangladeshi heritage so I strongly advise people to get vaccinated against COVID – whether they need a first, second or booster dose.”
Recent research from the UK Health Security Agency showed that the NHS booster programme has helped prevent around 186,000 hospitalisations since mid-December.
Spring booster jab appointments can be booked on the NHS website or phoning 119. You can also find a list of places to get a walk-in vaccine here.