Accelerated Roll-Out Of Vaccine Boosters Expected

NI's Health Minister Robin Swann has highlighted the importance of an accelerated roll-out of Covid-19 vaccine boosters, stating that he expects to see significantly increased numbers receiving their booster jabs in the coming days and weeks.

The Minister met with senior Department and HSCB officials for an update on the booster programme.

Following the meeting, he said: "I was assured that 210,000 doses have already been ordered by GP practices, for use as booster doses within a three week window. Many more will follow, as GPs continue to invite eligible patients in for their boosters.

"In addition, a long list of participating pharmacies across Northern Ireland will be providing booster jabs to those aged 50 or over.

"You must have completed your first and second doses of COVID-19 vaccinations at least 6 months before getting the booster vaccination.

"If this is the case and you are 50 or over, you will be able to contact a local community pharmacy and book an appointment. A number of pharmacies will also be providing walk-in booster dose opportunities.

"We are therefore offering a choice for the 50 plus age group – get invited in by your GP for your booster or arrange it yourself through a community pharmacy."

The Minister continued: "The booster jab programme will provide vital and timely protection to individuals this winter. I expect to see a rapidly increasing number of people getting these jabs. I have also asked officials to keep different deployment options for booster doses on the table.

"This is an extremely busy period for our vaccinator teams, with the ongoing provision of first and second doses of Covid vaccines alongside the roll-out of the booster doses, the provision of jabs to 12 to 17 year olds, and flu vaccination.

"It's still not too late to get your first dose – people are still coming forward for it and we are now very close to reaching 90% of the NI adult population."