RESIDENTS in Bolton are now being called for their booster jabs.

Following the announcement that a third Covid-19 vaccination will be available to certain groups, the invites have started rolling out. This will be a minimum of six months after their second jab.

Dr Helen Wall, senior responsible officer for the vaccination programme in Bolton, said: “If you haven’t had your first or second vaccination now really is the time.

“We still have hundreds of Covid patients across the country in intensive care, 90 per cent of whom are not fully vaccinated.

“Getting two doses of a vaccine is the best way to reduce your chances of becoming seriously ill with Covid-19 and ending up in hospital.

“I’d also encourage anyone to book their booster when they are invited to.”

Booster jabs are now being offered to older and vulnerable adults to make sure they have a high level of protection heading into winter, as research suggests the protection provided by vaccines decreases gradually over time.

Boosters will be offered to all adults aged 50 years or over, those living in residential care homes for older adults, frontline health and social care workers and adult carers.

It will also be extended to all those aged 16 to 49 with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe Covid-19 and adults who live with immunosuppressed people.

To be eligible, individuals must also have received two doses of the Covid-19 vaccine at least six months ago.

The Pfizer vaccine will be given in the booster programme, regardless of which vaccine someone received for their first two doses. People should have both their flu and Covid booster jabs at the same time if operationally possible.