People in Devon have been thanked for taking up their invitation to have a booster Covid-19 dose.
Walk-in clinics have been very busy and extra appointments are being offered, where possible, to meet demand.
During peak demand, people who have booked appointments may be given priority and walk in clinics may be paused temporarily to maintain safe numbers and social distancing.
People are being asked to book, if possible, and come prepared for a wait.
NHS Devon’s Chief Nurse, Darryn Allcorn said: “I want to thank everyone who has booked or had their booster; you are helping to protect yourselves and your loved ones and to reduce pressure on our busy NHS services this winter.
“I also want to thank you for your patience and understanding if you have to wait. Our staff are working incredibly hard to ensure everyone has their vaccination as soon as possible.
“As the winter approaches both flu and Covid-19 are likely to be circulating and I would urge everyone to be vaccinated, if they are eligible. It’s not too late to have your first and second dose of the Covid jab and it could save your life this winter.”
JCVI has previously advised booster vaccination for all adults aged 50 years and over and those in a COVID-19 at-risk group. The offer has now been broadened to include those aged 40 to 49 years.
The advice comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) publishes the first data on booster vaccine effectiveness in the UK. The analysis shows that people who take up the offer of a booster vaccine increase their protection against symptomatic COVID-19 infection to over 90%. Protection against more severe disease is expected to be even higher.
People can book their COVID-19 booster appointment five months (152 days) after their second dose, meaning they could receive their top up vaccine on the day they become eligible at six months (182 days).
Booster vaccines can still only be given after a six-month interval (at least six months after your second vaccine dose), but allowing appointments to be booked at five months means people can get their jabs booked in ahead.
Those who are eligible can book their COVID-19 booster appointment by visiting the national booking system website or calling 119 and find a walk in site online.
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