THE NHS has said planning for Covid-19 booster jabs is underway in Herefordshire, revealing details of the next phase of the rollout.

Taurus Healthcare, a federation of GP surgeries in Herefordshire, said as per national guidance it would be prioritising third doses for health and social care staff, adults over the age of 50 and younger adults with underlying health conditions.

It said a minimum period of six months must have passed since the patient’s second jab before the third can be given.

Patients will be invited to attend their jab appointments by their GP surgery, in priority order.

Surgeries will contact patients when it's their turn to come forward, so there is no need for patients to contact them.

"The booster programme will not affect this year’s flu vaccination roll-out," the Taurus Healthcare spokesperson said.

"Eligible patients will be invited by their surgery to attend for their flu jab. Patients are requested not to wait to have both vaccinations together."

The spokesperson said getting the Covid jabs, as well as a flu vaccination, will help the NHS through the tough winter period.

"The winter period always brings extra pressures for the health service," they said.

"By stepping forward for your vaccinations when invited, you will be helping us to help you when you need us."

Booster jabs are being offered as part of a ramped-up vaccine effort across England, with 1.5 million people to be contacted.

Those eligible for boosters include anyone aged 50 and over, people living and working in care homes for the elderly, and frontline health and social care workers.

All people who are clinically extremely vulnerable and anyone aged 16 to 65 in an at-risk group for Covid (who were included in priority groups one to nine during the initial vaccine rollout) will also be eligible.