Covid-19 spring booster: Who is eligible for the fourth dose in Portsmouth, when will other groups be eligible, will the vaccine be Pfizer or Moderna and how to book

A second Covid-19 booster vaccine has been rolled out this week, with 'high-risk' people eligible for their fourth dose of the jab.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation said that vaccinating these groups was only a ‘precautionary’ measure and did not mean there was an increase in danger to their wellbeing.

The latest dose comes as Covid-19 cases sharply rise across the UK due to restrictions coming to an end and the emergence of the BA.2 Omicron variant.

In Portsmouth alone, 2,200 people had a confirmed positive result between March 12 and March 18.

But who is eligible for the fourth dose and how can you book an appointment?

Here's everything you need to know:

Who is eligible for the fourth dose?

Until March 21, only those with weakened immune systems were eligible for a second booster dose.

Now, vulnerable people are being offered the fourth jab.

Those eligible include:

-Adults aged 75 years and over

-Residents in a care home for older adults

-Individuals aged 12 years and over who are immunosuppressed.

Which vaccine will I be given?

Adults will be offered a Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, while children below the age of 18 will receive Pfizer.

The vaccine must be administered at least six months after the first booster dose.

Where can I get the booster dose in Portsmouth?

If you are eligible for the jab, a GP or hospital specialist should contact you to notify you of your fourth dose.

You may also get a letter from the NHS advising that you may be eligible and to discuss this with your doctor.

Vaccinations may take place at your local hospital or NHS service such as a GP practice.

A list of vaccination sites in Portsmouth is available here.

Local NHS teams will also be administering the vaccine in care homes.

Can I book my fourth dose online?

You can only book your dose online once you have received an invitation from the NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme.

Once invited, you will be able to book your appointment online via the NHS website or by calling NHS 119.

SEE ALSO: What are the side effects of Pfizer and Moderna boosters jabs?

Will everyone receive a fourth jab?

The government has indicated that the booster will be made available to everyone by the end of the year.

According to i News, Boris Johnson told guests at the Conservative Party conference last week: 'I hope you’ve all had your boosters? Well, we’re getting ready for a fourth jab, because we’re going to need it.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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