More than two million top up COVID-19 jabs have been delivered in just three weeks, as the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme continues to protect those most at risk from coronavirus.

People have been quick to take up the offer of a life-saving COVID jab ahead of winter – with a total of 2.08 million top ups administered so far.

England’s top nurse, who had her booster vaccination last week, is today urging anyone who is eligible to come forward for their extra protection.

Currently, around four million people in England are eligible for a booster including health and care workers, those with underlying health conditions and people aged 50 and over.

People who are eligible will be invited for their booster shot at least six months on from their second dose, in line with independent expert advice – the number of people who are eligible changes daily as more people reach the six month mark.

Millions of people have already been invited by text, email and letter encouraging them to book in through the national booking service.

The NHS kickstarted the booster programme on September 16, within two days of updated advice from the JCVI, and has sent out more than four million invites to those who are eligible.

More than 80 million vaccinations have been delivered, and well over four in five adults have had both doses since the NHS in England made history when Margaret Keenan received the first jab outside of a clinical trial in Coventry, in December 2020.

Chief Nursing Officer for England, Ruth May said: “It’s fantastic to see that just three weeks into the booster campaign, more than two million people have been quick to get their top up in protection ahead of what will be a busy winter period for the NHS.

“Thanks to the incredible efforts of NHS staff who have been vaccinating at mosques, sports grounds, and community centres those who are eligible and most at risk from coronavirus have been able to get their booster shot.

“I have received my booster shot ahead of winter to protect myself and those around me – I would urge others to do the same – it is quick, effective and provides really important protection against the virus”.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “More than two million top-up jabs have been administered in England in just three weeks – a brilliant achievement.

“Vaccines have built a strong wall of defence across the country and our booster campaign will help keep the virus at bay.

“If you are eligible, please get your booster or third jabs as soon as possible – they will reinforce your protection ahead of the winter to keep you and your family safe”.

Eligible individuals will be able to quickly and conveniently book an appointment via www.nhs.uk/book-covid-booster. People that can’t go online can book by phoning 119.

Those who are eligible for a booster at least six months on from their second dose include:

• those living in residential care homes for older adults
• all adults aged 50 years or over
• frontline health and social care workers
• all those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the green book), and adult carers adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals.