The NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme reported a record 1.6 million booster doses last week (Monday to Sunday) as the NHS booster campaign continues to protect the country against the virus.

More than seven million people across England have received their COVID-19 booster vaccine and since Friday, more than half a million people have booked in for their top-up jab.

In total, 7,022,871 boosters have been delivered in just over six weeks since the campaign was rolled out, 48 hours after being given the green light by the government – compared to 5.5 million first doses at this point as part of the initial roll out.

Hundreds of walk-in sites are now also administering crucial booster vaccines across the country, making it easier than ever for those eligible to get their jab.

People eligible for their booster can use the NHS online walk-in finder to find the most convenient site to get their top-up without an appointment.

This adds to the existing offer through the National Booking Service with a further 1.6 million invitations going out this week as more people become eligible, six months on from their second dose.

Almost three in five eligible over 50s have now had their booster, while around 70% of eligible over 80s have also had their vital top-up jab as winter arrives.

More than 87 million vaccines have already been delivered and nine in 10 adults have had their first dose since the NHS in England made history when Margaret Keenan received the first jab outside of a clinical trial in Coventry, in December.

Dr Nikki Kanani, Deputy Lead for the NHS Vaccination Programme, said: “Thanks to the huge efforts of NHS staff, the NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme has now vaccinated more than seven million people across England with vital booster doses ahead of winter, just over six weeks since the rollout began.

“A further 1.6 million invites are going out this week to people who are eligible and hundreds of walk-in sites are now also available for those eligible for boosters making it easier than ever to get this important extra protection as we go into the winter period.

“I’ve had my booster – it was quick and easy and I know it’s giving me extra protection ahead of winter. I would encourage anyone receiving an invite to come forward as soon as possible, it will protect you and your loved ones”.

A record 1.6 million boosters were administered last week, up from 1.6 million the week before and 1.5 million the week before that, as the NHS booster campaign continues to gather pace.

Walk-in sites are also offering vaccinations to 12-15 year olds to get their jab, and parents should check the NHS online walk-in finder to find their nearest centre, which is updated each day as new sites open up.

Parents can continue to use the national booking service to book their child’s jab or through the ongoing schools programme.