COVID-19: Hartlepool residents urged to get their booster jab if eligible

Published Friday, 22nd October 2021

“As we approach the winter season, it is vital that eligible people across Hartlepool get their COVID-19 booster jab to protect themselves, their loved ones and our NHS.”

That’s the message from Craig Blundred, Hartlepool’s Director of Public Health, who added: “If people don’t get their booster jab, they ultimately increase their risk of catching COVID-19 and having a more serious illness.

“Sadly, this wouldn’t just lead to more cases of COVID-19, it would also result in increased pressures on our NHS.

“Hartlepool – like the rest of the United Kingdom – is currently experiencing an increase in the number of cases and it is therefore really important we all continue to exercise caution.

“For example, the evidence is clear that wearing face coverings in busy indoor areas and on public transport will still help to protect you and those around you even though they're no longer legally required.

“Continuing to wash and sanitise your hands regularly and allowing fresh air to circulate indoors will also help to reduce infections.

“But the most important thing of all is that each and every one of us gets the vaccine when we are called to do so – it’s something that protects us, our families and all those that we love.”

Craig Blundred photo

Craig Blundred

Who can get a COVID-19 booster vaccine?

Booster vaccine doses are available on the NHS for people most at risk from COVID-19 who have had a second dose of a vaccine at least six months ago.

This includes:

  • People aged 50 and over
  • People who live and work in care homes
  • Frontline health and social care workers
  • People aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts them at high risk of getting seriously ill from COVID-19
  • People aged 16 and over who are a main carer for someone at high risk from COVID-19
  • People aged 16 and over who live with someone who is more likely to get infections (such as someone who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)

People who are pregnant and in one of the eligible groups can also get a booster dose.

You can find out more about booking or managing a booster dose of the Coronavirus vaccine by clicking here