Important Message: the Omicron Variant and COVID Vaccination Boosters
Omicron is variant of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 and was first identified in Southern Africa. Although we don’t know a lot about it yet there is evidence that it may be more easily transmitted between people.
To help reduce the risk of this, on 29 November 2021 the UK Government announced that it would extend vaccinations to offer:
- a booster dose to everyone aged 18 years old and over;
- a booster dose to people aged 16 years old and over with a severely weakened immune system;
- booster doses from 3 months after the previous dose – currently it’s from 6 months after the previous dose;
- a 2nd dose to all children aged 12 to 15 years old.
If you are in one of these groups we are working on plans to offer you a booster as soon as possible and you will be contacted once these are in place. In the meantime please don’t contact your practice as they won’t be able to help. If have any questions please contact NHS 111 online or call 119.
If you are clinically vulnerable, over 18, or health and care staff you are already eligible for a booster jab six months after your second dose. Eligible people in Sheffield can now book their booster on the National Booking Service, by calling 119, or attend a walk-in clinic
Remember, you can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and keep everyone safe this winter:
- Always wear a face covering when in enclosed spaces with other people – on public transport, in shops and other public places;
- Keep your distance from other people when out in public;
- Wash your hands often and for at least 20 seconds, particularly when you have been outside;
- If you have COVID-19 symptoms book a PCR test as soon as possible and self-isolate until you know the result;
- If you have returned from one of the following countries in the last 10 days you should take a PCR test: South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia and Angola
