UK Health Secy Javid urges people to get COVID booster shots to avoid Christmas curbs

United Kingdom's Health Secretary Sajid Javid asked elderly and vulnerable people to get COVID-19 booster shots earliest in a bid to avoid being subjected to restrictions during Christmas holidays, reported Sky News on Sunday. According to Department of Health, almost 30% of ults above age of 80 and 40% of persons over age of 50 in England are yet to be ministered with COVID-19 booster shots. Meanwhile, three million ditional people in England will be offered a booster shot next week, and Javid has urged everyone who is eligible to take vantage of offer.

"We know immunity starts to wane after six months, especially for elderly and vulnerable. So, booster vaccines will strengn ir protection to keep people safe during upcoming winter season," Health Secretary was quoted as saying by outlet. Almost ten million people in United Kingdom have been inoculated with COVID booster shots, which Javid described as a "phenomenal achievement" within two months. He also urged young people to help ir parents and grandparents and or loved ones in getting ir booster shots as it could save ir lives. 

booster shots offered to persons over age of 50

"It is also not too late for people who have still not taken ir first or second doses of COVID-19 vaccines," Health Secretary stated, ding that this truly is a national mission. boosters are currently offered to persons over age of 50 and those considered to be at highest risk of contracting COVID-19. At present, people in United Kingdom have to wait for at least six months after ir second dose before being eligible for a booster shot. However, starting Monday, November 8, y will be able to schedule ir appointment after five months, albeit y will only be able to obtain booster after six months, reported outlet. 

It should be mentioned here that Health Secretary's message comes after one of Britain's top scientists cautioned that COVID crisis is "far from over" and that situation in UK is "concerning." Meanwhile, British authorities have also increased vaccination sites in England compared with beginning of month this year. More than 500 extra vaccine centres have been set up across UK to reach out to more and more people. Meanwhile, vaccination facilities are also available in schools for those aged between 12 to 15.

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