Dr David Vickers, medical director, Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust, which delivers the large-scale vaccination centres across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough said:
“Our centres will be offering boosters on a walk-in basis for young people aged 16 and 17 from Monday 17 January as soon as they reach 3 months post their second dose. The only exception to this is our vaccination centre at Chesterton Indoor Bowls Club which, due to restricted parking, does not offer walk-in facilities.
“Eligible people can also choose to book an appointment for their booster, if preferred, via the National Booking Service at www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine
“All other eligible groups can also continue to access their 1st and 2nd dose vaccinations via our walk-in services or via booked appointment; other than 12-15 year olds who are not in an at risk group and who need their second dose – this group should continue to book appointments 12 weeks after their first dose via the National Booking Service.”
Previously, boosters were only recommended by the JCVI for clinically vulnerable 16 and 17-year-olds who are most at risk from Covid-19.
Since the vaccination programme rolled out to this age group in August, more than 16,000 16 and 17 year olds across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have had their first dose, and more than 15,000 under 18s their second. Over 76% of all eligible cohorts across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have had their booster or third dose.
Dr Gary Howsam, Chair of the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Clinical Commissioning Group, said:
“Getting the vaccine is the single most important step we can take to protect ourselves, our families and our communities against Covid-19.
“We strongly encourage people who are eligible to come forward for their booster and it’s never too late to have your first or second dose either. The evidence is clear. Not getting vaccinated against Covid puts you at greater risk of serious illness and death.
“Vaccines are the best way to protect yourselves and your loved ones and reducing covid-related hospital admissions will help the NHS cope better during the winter months and reduce disruption to routine and planned care.”
Further information on walk-in vaccination services is available at www.thevaccinators.co.uk
