MORE than 300,000 people in Somerset are being offered a Covid-19 vaccinations as part of the county's autumn booster campaign.

The jabs are being given at 25 sites including vaccination clinics, community pharmacies and some GP practices.

Adults in care home, the housebound, clinically vulnerable, health and social care workers, pregnant women and the 65s and over have been eligible since September 5.

People aged 50 and over will be invited forwards over the coming weeks.

Gary Risdale, programme manager for the vaccination team, said: “We've been very encouraged to see such high interest in people coming forwards for their jabs already.

"Whilst many of our clinics are fully booked each day we are working hard to open as much capacity as possible and encourage people to persevere to make their appointments.

"Clinics will show up on the national booking service as soon as new appointments are available, so it’s always worth checking.

"There are plenty of clinics across the county and our teams are working very hard to see as many people every day as possible."

He said people who are housebound or in care homes will be contacted to arrange a visit.

Family members, friends and neighbours of the elderly are being urged to reach out and support them in making their appointments or if needed in getting them to the clinic.

Vaccinations are currently available by appointment only by calling 119 or booking online to book.

Appointments are also still available for first, second or initial boosters for adults and children who were aged 5+ before September 1, 2022.

Cllr Adam Dance, Somerset County Council's lead member for public health, said: “Vaccines are the best way to protect ourselves from serious illness and can therefore help reduce pressure on the NHS and other health and care services.

"Catching Covid, or flu, can make us seriously unwell, resulting in days in bed, missing things we enjoy doing, and not being able to do easy day-to-day tasks.

"This winter could be the first time we see the effects of the so called ‘twindemic’ with both Covid and flu in full circulation, so it's vital that those most susceptible to serious illness from these viruses come forward for vaccines in order to protect themselves and those around them.

"NHS staff are putting on extra clinics across Somerset to give local people the best opportunity to get their vaccinations."