People should get their Covid-19 vaccine booster dose as soon as possible, health officials in Northern Ireland have warned.
Chief Medical Officer Michael McBride is just one of those officials. And on Sunday, December 19, he accelerated the extension of the booster programme to 18-29-year olds with immediate effect in a bid to reduce the impact of the Omicron variant.
He said the variant is spreading rapidly and is likely to be dominant or close to dominant in Northern Ireland by Christmas.
So, he said the risk of any of catching the virus is "most definitely heightened."
The Chief Medical Officer said: "A booster dose strengthens and deepens protection. This is about training and educating our immune systems to deal with a Covid-19 infection. Booster doses are like an advanced course of learning, making our bodies more skilled in combating the virus. You lose out without a booster.
"I know some people are worried about potential effects of the booster in the run-up to Christmas. My advice to them is straightforward - the potential effects of Covid are much more concerning. The vast majority of reactions to the vaccines are minor and short-lived - like having a sore arm for a day.
"So please don’t wait to get your booster. And if you are still holding back on your first or second dose, now is the time to come forward. Omicron is here and we must all use every defence that is available to us."
How do I get my booster?
Health Trust vaccination hubs are now open for walk-in boosters for anyone aged 18 and over who is at least three months from their second vaccine dose.
And from Wednesday, December 22, anyone in NI over the age of 18 who received their second dose at least three months ago will be able to book a slot if they would rather do this than try a walk-in.
Walk-in options are widely available at Trust centres but if you are 30 or over, you can book your slot at https://covid-19.hscni.net/get-vaccinated/
GPs across Northern Ireland are continuing their sustained booster dose push, arranging an ongoing programme of booster jab clinics for their patients. Participating pharmacies are offering booster doses by appointment and, in some cases, on a walk-in basis.
Those who have not yet had their first or second jab are still being urged to do so, and first and second doses are available at the Trust centres and participating pharmacies.
The latest details of vaccination hub locations and opening times are available on the Health Trust websites. You can find links to these on the NI Direct website.
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