More than 2 million so-called top up COVID-19 vaccine booster jabs have been delivered in three weeks, the UK’s health service announced on Saturday. The National Health Service (NHS) said people in the high-risk categories have been quick to take up the offer of the booster jabs ahead of winter, with a total of 2.08 million top ups administered so far. Currently, around 4 million people in England are eligible for a booster over and above their two COVID-19 vaccine jabs including health and care workers, those with underlying health conditions and people aged 50 and over.

It’s fantastic to see that just three weeks into the booster campaign, more than 2 million people have been quick to get their top up in protection ahead of what will be a busy winter period for the NHS, said Ruth May, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS England. 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, she said.