The autumn booster campaign is set to kick off soon as a new Covid-19 variant, known as XEC, continues to spread across Europe. With the XEC variant expected to become the dominant strain of the virus, a fresh round of Covid boosters will be made available between October and December. This variant was first identified in Berlin, Germany, in June and has since been detected in 15 countries across three continents, including the Netherlands, Spain, Denmark, and Israel.
Last month, the Department of Health announced that an autumn Covid-19 booster vaccination will be offered to those at high risk of serious disease and who are most likely to benefit from vaccination. Health Minister Mike Nesbitt emphasized the importance of vaccination in reducing the risk of serious illness, hospitalization, and death for those with underlying health conditions and older individuals. He also highlighted the protection it provides for frontline health and social care workers.
Chief Medical Officer, Professor Sir Michael McBride, echoed the sentiment, stressing the importance of eligible individuals taking up the offer of vaccination for Covid-19. He encouraged those who are eligible for the vaccine, including those with weakened immune systems, to get vaccinated when they are invited.
Who is eligible for a Covid booster? The NHS states that Covid vaccines offer good protection against the virus, with those who have received the booster being about 45% less likely to be admitted to the hospital. Eligibility for the booster in Northern Ireland is the same, with individuals being offered the booster around six months after their last vaccine dose. Even if someone has not received a Covid jab offer in the past, they can still get an autumn vaccination.
People with weakened immune systems are also eligible for the vaccine, with criteria outlined in the Immunisation Green Book. While the list covers a range of eligible individuals, it is essential to check nhs.uk/get-vaccine to confirm eligibility.
How do I get the vaccine this autumn? In Northern Ireland, the following groups will be offered a Covid-19 booster vaccine this autumn:
Residents in a care home for older adults
All adults aged 65 years and over
Persons aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group
Frontline health and social care workers
What are the symptoms of Covid XEC? According to the NHS, symptoms of Covid can include:
Fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
New loss of taste or smell
Sore throat
Congestion or runny nose
Nausea or vomiting
Diarrhea
If you suspect you have Covid, it is important to avoid contact with others and return to your normal activities only when you feel better and no longer have a high temperature.
In conclusion, the autumn booster campaign in Northern Ireland aims to provide vital protection against the spread of Covid-19, particularly with the emergence of the XEC variant. Eligible individuals are encouraged to take up the offer of vaccination to safeguard their health and well-being. Stay informed and prioritize your health by getting vaccinated this autumn.