A vital message has been issued to anyone who caught coronavirus during the Christmas period.
Four million people in England tested positive for the virus in December after catching the highly transmissible Omicron variant.
Whilst the super spreader variant of Covid-19 causes milder symptoms in comparison to other strains, it can still affect those who are fully vaccinated and can cause severe illness in some people.
Across December, some hospitals were forced to cancel non-urgent surgery and appointments after a spike in Covid-19 cases.
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Millions of Brits were also unable to get their booster vaccine during this time due to the record-breaking number of infections in the Omicron wave.
New NHS data shows 6.3 million people have missed their booster by six weeks or more, since they were made available to every adult on December 15,
Health experts have now issued an important message to those who caught the virus over Christmas and are yet to have their booster jab, the Mirror reports.
People who test positive for coronavirus have to wait 28 days after a positive test, or after symptoms started, before getting a booster under guidance from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Last week the NHS sent over 5 million texts reminding people to come forward and get vaccinated.
If you are vaccinated you are 85% less likely to end up in hospital than unvaccinated people, according to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Experts are now warning people to act now to protect their health and say goodbye to Covid-19.
NHS National Medical Director, Professor Stephen Powis, said: "Everyone would like to see the back of covid and as things begin to return to normal it is important we don't lose sight of what will protect you from the virus.
"If you were one of the millions of people who tested positive in December and were unable to get your booster, it is time to come forward for that vital vaccination 28 days on from catching covid.
"More than six million people are overdue their booster by at least six weeks, and while some had to delay because of a coronavirus infection it is still absolutely crucial that people get their booster in order to increase their protection to reinfection and the dangers of long covid.
"The evidence is clear, vaccination provides the best protection for you and your loved ones against coronavirus, so I urge anyone yet to come forward for their booster – or their first or second dose – to check where their nearest site is online and get protected now."
Those who are eligible can turn up at walk-in centres without an appointment.
Chemists, GP practices and large community sites are providing slots too, but booking is often required.
If you have access to the internet, you can book online at the NHS booking site and locate a time and place which a location which suits you.
You will only need a time and day for one slot, but if you have recently had covid you must wait four weeks before booking.
People wanting to get their booster should click the green “book now” button where they will be asked for their NHS number.
This will make the booking faster, but if you don't have it you can fill out your personal details or book by calling 119.
Invitations by text will come from NHSvaccine and include a link to the NHS website, allowing those who are eligible to book an appointment at a suitable site.
