The NHS across the UK will shortly be inviting people for their autumn COVID booster vaccine.
This is to maintain the level of protection that previous COVID vaccines have given over the last 18 months or so.
September 2022
Who is eligible?
The following groups are eligible for the booster:
- People aged five and over in a clinical risk group, including those on their GP Learning Disability Register. Clinical risk groups for children are set out in the Green Book p22 [PDF]. This includes all people aged 5 and over who have Down’s syndrome
- Unpaid carers aged 16 and above. This will include parents of children and adults who have Down’s syndrome.
In addition:
- Older adults and staff in care homes.
- Health and social care staff (as set out in the Green Book p18 [PDF]).
- All adults aged 50 and over.
When will I receive an invitation?
The NHS is currently prioritising vaccinating care home residents and people unable to leave their home, this started last Wednesday, 7 September.
In the coming weeks, the booster programme will expand down the priority groups, so we imagine most people who have Down’s syndrome will get their invitation around mid-October.
How do I book an appointment?
Anyone eligible for a booster in England will book their appointment via the National Booking Service, which will open soon. You should wait to receive your invitation before attempting to book an appointment.
People who have Down’s syndrome aged between 5 and 17, will receive their vaccine at GP vaccination sites, community pharmacies and other vaccination centres.
Other nations of the UK
Arrangements in Wales and Northern Ireland may differ slightly, but will follow the same broad approach and timescale, As soon as we have specific information for Wales and Northern Ireland, we will share this.
What vaccine will people be offered?
People aged 12 and over can receive a newly approved Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine that targets two coronavirus strains.
5 to 11-year-olds should receive the paediatric formulation of the original Pfizer vaccine.
Flu Vaccination – important reminder
The government is launching the autumn COVID booster programme alongside the 2022 flu vaccination programme. If you are offered both vaccines, it’s safe to have them at the same time.