Trust leaders urge public to have booster jabs as COVID-19 cases soar

19 October 2021

Responding to the slow uptake of COVID-19 booster jabs and the surge in coronavirus cases, the deputy chief executive of NHS Providers, Saffron Cordery, said:  

"We would urge everyone to take up the offer of a COVID-19 jab, including a booster, when they are offered it.

"We know that COVID-19 vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of severe illness, and the high level of take up across the population has made a real and positive impact.

"However, we also know that immunity levels dip over time. This, combined with the significant and growing levels of COVID-19 circulating in the community – with close to 50,000 cases yesterday – means there is a continuing risk from the disease, especially for the most vulnerable in our society.

"The NHS is already working under intense pressures to recover waiting lists and deal with increased demand for emergency care, while dealing with severe staff shortages.

"Added to this, trusts are also facing their first winter with both flu and COVID-19 in circulation, as well as other infectious diseases, such as RSV and norovirus.

The booster vaccination is a vital step in maintaining our defences against the virus.

Saffron Cordery    Deputy Chief Executive

"The booster vaccination is a vital step in maintaining our defences against the virus. Given the risks we face, reports that a new advertising campaign will be launched this week to encourage uptake of both the booster and flu vaccine are welcome.

"But we should also encourage the use of other measures too in our fight against COVID-19 too. Self-isolating as appropriate, wearing a mask, especially in crowded and indoor spaces, and ventilating rooms are all simple steps we can take to help contain COVID-19. The roll out of vaccinations to 12–15-year-olds will also help contain the spread.

"Everyone needs to play their part."