Over-75s and vulnerable adults to be offered fourth jab in spring

Vulnerable people and those aged 75 and over will be offered a fourth COVID jab this spring, says Health Secretary Sajid Javid.

It comes after a recommendation by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).

Immunity from vaccination declines over time and many older adults received their most recent vaccine dose in September or October 2021.

These individuals face a much higher risk from severe COVID-19, the JCVI said.

Those advised to get a fourth jab in spring are:

• Adults aged 75 years and over

• Residents in a care home for older adults

• Individuals aged 12 years and over who are immunosuppressed, as defined in the COVID-19 healthcare guidance Green Book.

“The JCVI will keep under review whether the booster programme should be extended to further at-risk groups,” Mr Javid said.

People aged over 18 will be given the Moderna or Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine, and eligible persons aged between 12 and 17 will be given the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine.