Covid-19 vaccination programme opens for everyone 18 and over in NI
The Covid-19 vaccination programme in Northern Ireland has opened for everyone aged 18 and over.
In line with the latest advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, anyone aged under 40 can book their vaccination at one of the health trust centres in order to receive the Pfizer vaccine.
However, vaccine supplies remain limited and, as a result, there will be approximately 20,000 slots available for booking on Thursday morning.
Those awaiting an appointment are asked to be patient as additional slots for future weeks will be released every Thursday.
More than one million people in Northern Ireland have had at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine – over 70% of the adult population - and more than 625,000 have received two doses.
The opening of the booking system to all adults has been hailed as another important milestone in the vaccination programme, which was launched less than six months ago.
Health Minister Robin Swann said: “I am delighted that our vaccination programme is now open to all adults in Northern Ireland.
"I know this will be very welcome news for young people who have been waiting patiently for their turn to get the jab.
“Today’s announcement is another important milestone in the drive to get as many people vaccinated as quickly as we can, so that we can see a return to normality.”
Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride added: “I know that many young people will be very keen to book their jab now that they’re eligible for vaccination.
"It’s important to understand that, while the risk of severe disease is lower in young people, some may become very ill and, of course, they can pass on the virus to others who may be more vulnerable.
“We’re dealing with the emergence of new variants and we all have a part to play in keeping each other safe. I would urge everyone aged 18 and over to book a slot for vaccination, including those in older age groups who have not yet stepped forward.
“Together we can make a difference.”
Latest Covid figures
According to the Department of Health, there have been no further coronavirus-related deaths in the last 24-hour reporting period and 84 new positive cases.
In the last seven days, there have been no coronavirus-related deaths and 525 positive cases.
There are currently 27 people with Covid-19 being treated in hospitals across Northern Ireland - two of them in intensive care and one on a ventilator.
Those under 40 who wish to receive the AstraZeneca vaccine may do so at the SSE Arena and at participating community pharmacies.
People making bookings are asked to be patient, as demand for appointments is expected to be strong.
In a statement, the Department of Health said the ongoing roll-out of the vaccination programme will continue to be dependent on the availability of vaccine supplies.
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