Autumn vaccines brought forward due to new Covid-19 variant

Nurses will be among those eligible to receive the vaccine first when the programme starts on 11 September in England.

“It is absolutely vital the most vulnerable groups receive a vaccine to strengthen their immunity over winter”

Maria Caulfield

The precautionary measure has been taken as scientists from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) examine the Covid-19 variant BA.2.86, which was first detected in the UK on Friday 18 August.

According to the UKHSA’s latest risk assessment, the variant has a high number of mutations and has appeared in several countries in individuals without travel history.

While it is not currently classified as a variant of concern, the UKHSA has suggested that speeding up the autumn vaccine programme will deliver greater protection for those at the highest risk of severe illness, which will also reduce the potential impact on the NHS.

There is no change to the wider public health advice at this time.

The vaccination campaign was previously due to commence in early October but now those most at risk will be able to access the booster from 11 September.

Health and care staff, people in care homes for older people, carers, those who are clinically vulnerable, and those aged 65 are all eligible to access the early vaccine.

The annual flu vaccine will also be made available to these groups at the same time wherever possible.

Health minister Maria Caulfield said: “As our world-leading scientists gather more information on the BA.2.86 variant, it makes sense to bring forward the vaccination programme.

“It is absolutely vital the most vulnerable groups receive a vaccine to strengthen their immunity over winter to protect themselves and reduce pressure on the NHS.

“I encourage anyone invited for a vaccination – including those yet to have their first jab – to come forward as soon as possible.”

Meanwhile, UKHSA chief executive Dame Jenny Harries said that bringing forward the vaccines programme was a precautionary measure to ensure the most vulnerable people “have protection against any potential wave this winter”.

She added: “There is limited information available at present on BA.2.86 so the potential impact of this particular variant is difficult to estimate.

“As with all emergent and circulating Covid-19 variants – both in the UK and internationally – we will continue to monitor BA.2.86 and to advise government and the public as we learn more. In the meantime, please come forward for the vaccine when you are called.”