The Government has announced that the COVID-19 winter booster programme will be moved forward because of concerns around a new variant, BA.2.86.
Those who are eligible for the booster vaccination include residents in a care home for older adults, all adults aged 65 years and over, and frontline health and social care workers.
The rollout of the vaccine has been brought forward, with vaccinations already beginning in England for adult care home residents and those with serious conditions that put them more at risk from complications from COVID-19.
The move is a precaution until more is understood about the new variant.
Cllr David Fothergill, Chairman of the LGA’s Community Wellbeing Board said: “It is clear that the success of the vaccination programme has allowed us to live with COVID-19.
“But the threat of new variants remains a concern, particularly for those who are more vulnerable in our communities.
“Councils and their directors of public health will again be doing all they can to work with NHS partners to support the take up of the booster vaccination rollout.
“As well as this, providers in the domiciliary care and care home sector are also being encouraged to communicate the benefits of the flu vaccine and COVID booster to care home staff, residents and those receiving homecare.
“If you are eligible, please do get vaccinated for flu and COVID-19 to protect yourselves and your families.”
