Wirral's independent local news website
More than one million Covid booster jabs have been given in the North West in just over six weeks as the NHS booster campaign continues to protect the country against the virus.
The region reached the one million milestone following another bumper week in which 202,376 booster doses were given (25 to 31 October). It compares to 525,000 first doses given in the North West within the first six weeks of the initial roll out.
A growing number of walk-in sites are now also administering crucial booster vaccines, making it easier and more convenient for those eligible to get their jab.
People eligible for their booster can use the NHS online walk-in finder to find the most convenient site to get their top-up without an appointment.
This adds to the existing offer through the National Booking Service with a further 1.6 million invitations going out nationally this week as more people become eligible, six months on from their second dose.
More than half of those eligible for the booster in the North West – 58% – have now had their vital top up jab as winter arrives.
More than 10.8 million vaccines have already been delivered in the North West since the vaccination programme began and three-quarters of those aged 12+ have now had at least one dose of the vaccine.
Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning and Senior Responsible Officer for the Vaccination Programme in the North West, said, “It’s hugely encouraging to see so many people coming forward for their booster vaccine. We know that this extra dose will extend the protection people already have from their first two doses and will also help to protect the people around them, which is going to be absolutely vital as we go into winter.
“Our teams are working hard to get people vaccinated as quickly as possible once it’s been six months since their second dose and I’d urge people who are eligible not to wait, but to get booked in for their booster vaccine straight away.”