The vaccine booster had been brought forward as a precaution against a highly mutated Covid variant known as BA.2.86.
People who are eligible for the Covid booster can book their appointment via the NHS website, NHS app, or by calling 119.
Hospital numbers are creeping up once more, with the latest government data showing an increase in the number of positive cases and deaths compared to July 2023.
However, hospital admissions of patients testing positive for Covid are still below the levels reached last winter.
Dr Gavin Dabrera, from the UK Health Security Agency, said: “While hospital admissions have continued to rise, ICU [intensive care unit] admissions remain low and stable.”
The circumstances surrounding this new Covid variant will be monitored very closely.
Meanwhile, experts in the field of virology have continuously highlighted the benefits of vaccination.
Pharmacist Randall Higgins previously told http://Express.co.uk that “the government’s decision to advance the booster vaccine rollout is indicative of the necessity to bolster immunity”.
Higgins said vaccination is an “essential step to reinforce protection against potential vaccine-resistant strains”.
The expert noted that the general public “should stay informed about booster recommendations, especially as research on the BA.2.86 variant progresses”.
Higgins stated: “Vaccination remains the frontline defence against severe illness and hospitalisation.”
Speaking about the BA.2.86 Covid variant, Steve Russell – the NHS director for vaccinations and screening – said: “The new Covid variant presents a new risk.
“Vaccines are our best protection against flu and COVID-19, and I strongly encourage all eligible people to come forward for their life-saving winter vaccines as soon as they can.”
Who is eligible for a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine?
According to the NHS, those eligible for the Covid booster include those:
- Aged 65 years old or over (you need to be 65 years old by 31 March 2024)
- Aged six months to 64 years old and are at increased risk
- living in a care home for older adults
- A frontline health or social care worker
- Aged 16 to 64 years old and a carer
- Aged 12 to 64 years old and live with someone with a weakened immune system.
You may also be contacted by a local NHS service, such as your GP surgery, to get a vaccine.