Hampshire residents urged to take up Covid booster jab
It comes as cases rise across the county
Last updated 22nd Oct 2021
As Covid case numbers rise across Hampshire, residents are being urged to get the booster jab when it is offered.
Council Leader Keith Mans, who is also Chair of the Local Outbreak Engagement Board, has issued a statement saying it is crucial that people protect themselves: “I would echo the Government’s comments last night about the importance of the vaccination and how critical it is in preventing the spread of infection.
"As we head into the winter and with the number of positive cases rising, the vaccination is the best way for people to protect themselves and others from the virus, and the risk of serious ill health.
“The roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccination programme has successfully reduced hospitalisations, and prevented serious disease.
"The booster jab offers ongoing protection to the most vulnerable and will help to ensure alongside other actions we can continue to prevent spread of the virus, get through the winter and enjoy the festive season and Christmas with our loved ones.”
Who can get the free COVID-19 booster?
• Adults aged 50+
• Adults and children with a long-term health condition
• Healthcare workers and carers
COVID-19 boosters will be offered no earlier than six months after being fully vaccinated.
Those eligible do not need to contact their GP surgery or the NHS - the NHS will be in touch to arrange an appointment.
More information about these vaccines and who can get them is available on the NHS website.
For people who have not yet had a first or second dose of the COVID-19 vaccination, bookings can be made through the National Booking System on the NHS website, or you can go to a walk-in clinic or contact your GP surgery.
More than one million Hampshire residents are now fully vaccinated against coronavirus but the Council is urging residents to continue to wear face coverings in crowded places, do lateral flow tests weekly, remember regular hand washing and opening windows wherever possible if meeting indoors.