England is launching the latest round of Covid-19 booster vaccines

England has launched its latest Covid-19 booster campaign for those most at risk from the disease.

From Monday, people over the age of 75, those living in adult care homes and others with certain underlying health conditions book a free shot to increase their protection against Covid-19.

Although the virus rarely makes headlines anymore, it is still spreading widely in the population, causing serious illness, hospitalizations and death.

Mary Ramsay, who leads immunizations at Britain’s Health Security Agency, said it was important for those most at risk to “get their jab to help boost their immunity” against a virus still circulating.

“We continue to see Covid-19 causing hospitalizations and severe illness, especially among the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, and the vaccine offers the best protection – so don’t delay.”

For the first time, private vaccines will also be available in addition to the public campaign.

Anyone over the age of 12 who has the means to pay for a shot can now be vaccinated privately.

Private Photos, which went on sale in Britain earlier this year, retails for between £45 and £99 ($56 to $124), depending on the brand and seller.

Major pharmacy chain Boots is offering the vaccines, along with some public pharmacies and private clinics. Shots from Pfizer and Novavax are currently being offered to retail customers.

Pharmadoctor, a company that helps community pharmacies deliver injections, said the BBC it has delivered more than 1,500 Pfizer doses, about 87% of which were intended for people who don’t meet the requirements for free shots.

Who is eligible for a booster shot?

Public health admissions are available to anyone who turns 75 or older on or before June 30 this year, as well as residents of care homes for the elderly and those with weakened immune systems.

The public health system will contact eligible individuals, who can also reserve a spot online.

The injections are provided by general practitioners, at pharmacies and walk-in centers.

Vaccine teams will visit care homes to deliver vaccinations to residents who want them.

The vaccines greatly reduce the risk of major complications, hospitalizations and death from Covid-19.

The risks are greater for the elderly and people with certain health conditions, so the UK government is offering free vaccines to some vulnerable groups to maintain protection against the disease.

The campaign runs until June 30.

Steve Russell, the national director for vaccinations and screening at England’s public health system, the National Health Service, said Covid-19 “can still be very dangerous, especially for the elderly and people with weakened immune systems.”

Over time, immunity gained through previous vaccination or infection may wane, “so it is critical that those at higher risk top up their protection,” he added.

“If you are 75 years or older or if you or your child has a weakened immune system, it is critical that you get your vaccine as soon as possible.”