Covid vaccine: How to book a jab and who is eligible?
The NHS has issued a warning regarding the alarming rise in Covid hospital cases across Britain after a new variant of the virus, known as Covid XEC, emerged. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the admission rate for patients testing positive for Covid XEC has increased to 4.5 per 100,000 people in the week to October 6, up from 3.7 the previous week. The North East has seen the highest hospital admission rates, with a rate of 8.12 per 100,000, and for those aged 85 and older, the rate is 52.48 per 100,000.
Experts believe that staying up to date with vaccines and booster shots can provide sufficient protection against severe illness and hospitalization, as the new strain is a sub-family of the same omicron lineage. Therefore, it is crucial to understand who is eligible for a Covid booster jab in the UK and how to access one.
The NHS has started offering autumn Covid boosters to the most vulnerable groups which includes:
– Over-65s
– Individuals aged between six months and 64 years with underlying health conditions, including pregnant women
– Residents of care homes for older people
– Frontline NHS and social care workers, as well as those working in care homes for older people
Around 11 million eligible individuals have been contacted directly by the NHS. However, those who qualify for the jab can also book their appointments via the NHS App, GPs, pharmacies, drop-in clinics, or by calling 119. Additionally, High Street chemists and private clinics offer the Pfizer Covid vaccine directly to the public, with prices ranging from £45 to £99. To receive the vaccine, individuals must be aged 12 or above and not have received a Covid vaccine in the previous three months.
The Covid vaccines currently used in the UK are from Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna. It is advised for individuals to accept whichever vaccine is offered to them, as both provide protection against severe illness or death.
It is essential for the public to stay informed on how to access the Covid vaccine and who is eligible, especially as cases continue to rise. By following the guidance provided by healthcare authorities and getting vaccinated, individuals can help protect themselves and others from the spread of the virus.