Health Minister Robin Swann has announced the next phase of the roll-out of the Covid-19 vaccine booster programme.
From next Wednesday, December 15, those in the 40-49 age group who are three months since their second dose will be able to book their booster using the online system.
And from today they can also book or attend a community pharmacy for a booster, or attend a Health Trust vaccination hub, which have some availability of walk-in slots at this stage.
The announcement comes with Northern Ireland’s vaccination programme approaching the half million mark for boosters and third doses administered.
Mr Swann said: “Everyone involved in our vaccination programme is continuing to work extremely hard to further accelerate the booster programme, while also providing first and second doses.
“It is our intention that by the end of January, Covid-19 vaccine booster doses will have been made available to everyone aged 18 and over in Northern Ireland.
“I would encourage everyone to get their booster when they are eligible. I also very much welcome the increase in people coming forward for their first doses.
“Vaccination is how we protect ourselves and those closest to us, and support our health service this winter. Every jab matters.”
People attending Trust vaccination walk-in hubs are asked to be patient in the event of any queues.
The Minister said: “Please be assured that the vaccination teams will get to you as quickly as they can.”
Current eligibility for boosters includes everyone aged over 50 who are three months since their second dose.
They can get their booster jabs at Trust hubs and pharmacies, and GPs are also providing boosters to this age group.
Meanwhile, First Minister Paul Givan and deputy First Minister Michelle O’Neill have urged everyone to come forward and get their vaccine and top up their protection with a booster when they are eligible.
They were speaking during a visit to Lisburn Primary and Community Care Centre, where they met staff and members of the public.
Mr Givan, who received his booster jab during the visit, said: “Vaccination continues to be a key part of our fightback against the coronavirus, particularly with the onset of the Omicron variant. I appreciate that people have lived under the shadow of Covid for a long time.
“It has disrupted all our lives in some way and, for many, it has had a devastating impact. While it’s important to emphasise the wider public health guidance, vaccination offers the best protection against the virus from serious health implications and requiring critical care.
“Those coming through the doors of this vaccination centre join the growing majority of people who have chosen to protect themselves and their loved ones by getting the vaccine. Their individual effort helps to build the collective resistance to Covid right across society,” the DUP minister added.
Michelle O'Neill added: “We all want an end to Covid, and the people receiving their vaccines and boosters today are part of that effort. Not only are they reducing their chances of catching the virus, they are helping to break the chains of transmission and keeping everyone safer as a result.
“The emergence of the Omicron variant has made it all the more important that people have the vital protection that vaccination offers us. It will help prevent serious disease and reduce the strain on our hospitals, which are already under real pressure.
“The vaccination effort has been monumental, and I applaud the health service staff and volunteers – both on the ground and behind the scenes – who have made it happen.”
To book a vaccination appointment online visit: https://covid-19.hscni.net/get-vaccinated/
Details of Trust vaccination hubs are available on Trust websites and community pharmacies providing boosters are available here.
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