16 and 17-year-olds urged to come forward for Covid vaccination

Everyone in Lancashire aged 16 and 17 is being strongly encouraged to come forward and have the Covid-19 vaccine in time for their return to education.

Earlier this month, Health and Social Secretary Sajid Javid announced that all 16 and 17-year-olds in England will be offered a Covid-19 vaccine by August 23, to give them vital protection before returning to college or sixth form.

Young adults are now being urged to play their part in helping normal life resume in Lancashire by getting their jab.

County Councillor Jayne Rear, cabinet member for education and skills, said: "Everyone in Lancashire wants to see life return to normal.

"By coming forward for vaccination, not only are you protecting yourself, but you will be playing a massive role in strengthening the wall of defence we are building to protect our communities from Covid-19.

"Many of you have waited patiently to be allowed to have your vaccine. Now is your chance – please accept the invitation and get vaccinated without delay."

Walk-in appointments are available for 16 and 17-year-olds at the majority of Lancashire's vaccination sites.

Abdul Razaq, Acting Director of Public Health for Lancashire County Council, said: "It is vitally important that we get as many people vaccinated as soon as possible.

"While younger people are generally less at risk from Covid-19, we have seen more cases of younger adults getting seriously ill from the Delta variant, which is now the dominant strain in England.

"We are confident that a single dose of a Covid-19 vaccine will give young people a significant level protection against hospitalisation. Getting your jab will also reduce the chance of spreading the virus to others, mitigating the disruption to your education.

"If you are aged between 16 and 17, please drop by your nearest walk-in centre to get your Covid-19 jab. Staff will be happy to speak to you if you have any questions about the vaccine."

To find a list of sites and other information, visit www.healthierlsc.co.uk/getmyjab