Coronavirus: Half of current cases 'unrecognised' says expert
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NHS England said on Saturday that three weeks after the booster programme began, a total of 2.08m third jabs have been given. Most people who can get a COVID-19 booster vaccine are also eligible for the annual flu vaccine, according to the NHS. The campaign comes as part of the government’s aim to build a “wall of defence” ahead of winter.
Third jabs are being given on the NHS for people most at risk from COVID-19, who have had a second dose of a vaccine at least six months ago. Like some other vaccines, levels of protection may begin to wane over time, and the booster aims to give you longer term protection.
Those eligible should be contacted by the NHS. They include those aged 50 and over, people who live and work in care homes, and frontline health and social care workers
Those aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts them at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19, or who are a main carer for someone at high risk from COVID-19, or live with someone who is more likely to get infections, are also eligible.
People who are pregnant and in one of the eligible groups can also get a booster dose, according to the NHS.
Ruth May, chief nursing officer for England, said it was “fantastic” to see the boosters reaching two million, and said she has had hers.
She said: “It’s fantastic to see that just three weeks into the booster campaign, more than two million people have been quick to get their top-up in protection ahead of what will be a busy winter period for the NHS.”
She added: “Thanks to the incredible efforts of NHS staff who have been vaccinating at mosques, sports grounds and community centres, those who are eligible and most at risk from coronavirus have been able to get their booster shot.
“I have received my booster shot ahead of winter to protect myself and those around me. I would urge others to do the same. It is quick, effective and provides really important protection against the virus.”
The UK recorded a further 133 deaths within 28 days of a positive test on Saturday, and more than 30,000 cases.
Most people being offered a booster dose, will receive a Pfizer vaccine or Moderna vaccine.
Some people may be offered a booster dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine if they cannot have the other two forms.
This means your booster dose may be different from the vaccines you had for your first and second doses.
The NHS says: “The coronavirus vaccines are safe and effective. They give you the best protection against COVID-19.”
There are some possible side effects of the booster to be aware of, as with your previous doses.
They include having a painful, heavy feeling and tenderness in the arm where you had your injection, though this tends to be worse around one to two days after the vaccine.
You may also find that you are feeling tired, have a headache, or are experiencing general aches, or mild flu like symptoms.
There are also some rare very serious side effects, according to the UK government.
It says you should seek medical advice urgently if, after vaccination, you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or feelings of having a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart.
“If you had serious side effects after any previous dose you may be advised to avoid or delay further vaccination. You should discuss this with your doctor or specialist,” the government adds.
Nonetheless, it suggests that there are very few people who should not have a booster.
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