Originally broadcast on BBC Radio Norfolk on 25th October 2021.

As the number of Covid cases rises across Norfolk, eligible residents are being urged to get their booster vaccines as soon as they’re invited to.

So far, 40% of Norfolk and Waveney’s population eligible for their boosters have been given the jab but Cath Byford, Chief Nurse at NHS Norfolk and Waveney Clinical Commissioning Group, which manages the vaccine rollout, says more must get their third dose:

“[Getting the vaccine and booster] is the best way to reduce your chances of becoming seriously ill with COVID-19 and ending up in hospital… The NHS is always under additional pressure during the autumn and winter as respiratory infections take hold. Reducing covid-related hospital admissions will help the NHS cope better during the winter months.”

To be eligible for a booster, you must have waited six months since your second dose.

More generally, NHS data shows Norfolk and Waveney continues to perform well in the national vaccine rollout. In the area, 94% of people over 18 have had their first dose of vaccine and 90% have had two doses, compared to the national figures of 90% and 85% respectively.

Listen below for more.