Boris Johnson urges over-50s to get booster jabs and win battle against Covid this winter

BORIS Johnson last night issued a ‘call to arms’ ahead of the winter months for over-50s to get their booster jabs.

The PM issued a vaccine rallying cry declaring the vaccines are the country’s “way through this winter”.

He wants the public to get their jabs when called upon by the NHS - after 500,000 people booked their third jab on Wednesday and Thursday alone.

The PM said: “Vaccines are our way through this winter. We’ve made phenomenal progress but our job isn’t finished yet, and we know that vaccine protection can drop after 6 months.

“To keep yourself, your loved ones, and everyone around you safe, please get your booster when you get the call.

“We can and will beat this virus but only if we listen to the science and look out for each other.

“This is a call to everyone, whether you’re eligible for a booster, haven’t got round to your second dose yet, or your child is eligible for a dose - vaccines are safe, they save lives, and they are our way out of this pandemic.”

Meanwhile, a senior doctor is encouraging parents to book vaccinations for their children during the half-term break.

There are almost 100 sites offering jabs for 12-15 year-olds with hundreds more expected to be set up in the coming weeks.

Millions of parents will be receiving letters from tomorrow inviting them to book a jab through the National Booking Service.

Dr Nikki Kanani, GP and deputy lead for the NHS vaccine programme, said she would urge families to “book in to give children and their loved ones crucial protection ahead of winter”.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “We are making it easier for parents and guardians to book Covid-19 vaccine appointments for their 12 to 15-year-old children ahead of half-term.

“This will give them much more flexibility in getting the jab when it is convenient for them as well as further supporting the vaccine rollout to build our wall of defence.

“Vaccines are safe, will protect children from Covid-19 and prevent further disruption to education.”