In the latest attempt to contain the potential threat of the Omicron variant, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that all adults above the age of 18 will be eligible to get their booster jab by the end of January.
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Booster jab for all adults
Previously, the Joint Committee for Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) had recommended the booster jab for everyone over the age of 40, along with immunocompromised individuals. However, in light of the worrying variant, they are now advising all adults from ages 18 to 39 to also get their third jab at least 3 months after they finished their primary course. They said in a statement earlier this week:
Having a booster dose of the vaccine will help to increase our level of protection against the Omicron variant. This is an important way for us to reduce the impact of this variant on our lives, especially in the coming months.
Massive booster drive
On 30 November, the Prime Minister revealed the government’s plan to follow that advice and have the dose available for all adults by the end of January. To deploy this massive vaccination effort, 400 military personnel will be helping the NHS in the drive, and there will be more vaccination centres, hospital hubs, along with 1,500 community pharmacies where individuals can access the jab.
As of now, the booster jab is being offered to those over the age of 40, but younger adults will be called to book their appointments ‘in the order of age.’ During the press conference Johnson urged eligible adults to follow the NHS directives and wait their turn. He said:
It is vital that the older and the more clinically vulnerable get that added protection first.
Even if you have had your second jab over three months ago and you are now eligible, please don't try and book until the NHS says it is your turn.
