Ireland’s booster rollout is well underway with Taoiseach Micheal Martin confirming nearly half of Irish adults have received the dose.
Health officials reported 7,411 new cases today as the now dominant Omicron variant spreads rapidly through the community.
With Christmas Day approaching, Chief Medical Officer, Tony Holohan has repeatedly asked that people do everything they can to protect themselves amid the festive season.
Speaking this evening he said: "If you are yet to receive a booster dose of Covid-19 vaccine, then you should take every measure you can to protect yourself until you are eligible to receive it.
“This includes avoiding risky environments and keeping your contacts as low as possible. All of the available evidence indicates that a booster vaccine will offer good protection against infection with the Omicron variant.
“If you have recently arrived in Ireland from overseas, then you are advised to take an antigen test for the five days following your arrival into Ireland.
“If you experience any symptoms of Covid-19, however mild, then you must self-isolate immediately and arrange a PCR test."
So here’s everything you need to know about when you’ll be getting the booster dose.
Who is getting a booster dose now?
The following groups are currently being offered the booster dose:
- people aged 40 and older
- those living in a nursing home or a long-term healthcare facility
- healthcare workers
- people aged 16 to 49 with an underlying condition
Who will get a booster next?
Those next in the line include:
- those aged 30-39
- anyone who received the Janssen vaccine that is aged between 16 and 29
- 16 years and older who are pregnant
- 16 to 49 - in stages with older age groups being called first
When will I get a vaccine?
Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has said everyone will be offered a booster jab by January 10.
The HSE will contact you with an appointment as soon as you are eligible, you do not need to apply for a dose.
