In a major milestone in the battle against the traditional festive frailties that affect the health sector every year, the latest NHS figures indicate that more than 10 million people have now had their autumn COVID-19 jabs.
In said battle, and with everyone aged 50 and over being made eligible for their autumn boosters a little over a week ago, the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme delivered a massive 2.3 million jabs last week alone, with the month of October having an average of two million jabs per week so far, ultimately helping people feel protected and insulating the NHS against the winter woes ahead.
Health leaders are also warning of an incoming ‘twindemic’ with the jeopardy of COVID-19 and the flu combining to further endanger the country’s most vulnerable and the NHS’s key services.
NHS Director of Vaccinations and Screening, Steve Russell, said: “Thanks to the incredible efforts of staff, the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme has now delivered more than 10 million autumn boosters in less than two months, providing vital protection to those most susceptible to COVID-19 ahead of winter.
“We are continuing to invite and encourage everyone eligible who has yet to take up the offer of a COVID-19 booster or flu jab to come forward with the threat of a ‘twindemic’ from both viruses circulating this winter.
“If you have not yet been able to take up the offer, it has never been easier or more convenient to book your jabs with a record number of sites delivering COVID-19 jabs this year and the ability to book your flu vaccination on the National Booking Service as part of a pilot for the first time – please book in without delay.”
The landmark 10 million comes after the NHS rolled out a range of resilience measures, which included the launch of ‘winter war rooms’ and community respiratory infection hubs, as well as the expansion of various mobile response teams – all of which is part of the bid to sure up services in anticipation of the inevitable Christmas crisis.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Thomas Waite, said: “As winter approaches we can expect to see both flu and COVID-19 cases rise, so it’s really encouraging to see more than 10 million people have already received their COVID-19 booster.
“Getting vaccinated against both viruses is the most important thing you can do to reduce your chances of getting seriously ill. If you’re eligible, now is the time to come forward to top up your protection ahead of winter.”
More information on the number of vaccinations delivered in England is available here.
