Eluned Morgan, Minister for Health and Social Services
Today, I will publish the latest version of our COVID-19 vaccination programme update.
I am delighted to confirm that we have achieved two commitments made in our Vaccination Strategy for Autumn and Winter; to offer all 12-15 year olds a COVID-19 vaccination and to offer all eligible care home residents their booster by 1 November. 12-15 year olds could either attend at a time allocated in their appointment letters or at walk-in clinics. We will continue to make the offer available to those who have not yet been able to take up the vaccine.
More than 5.1 million COVID-19 vaccinations have been administered in Wales. 45% of 12-15 year olds have taken up their offer of the vaccination. 69% of care home residents and 55% of care home staff have received their booster vaccination.
These are fantastic achievements and I am incredibly proud of everyone who has made this possible, including all our NHS Wales colleagues, wider partners, volunteers, and everyone that has taken up the offer of this life saving vaccination.
Health boards are continuing to vaccinate those who are eligible for their booster when at least 6 months have passed since their second dose. Those who are eligible for a booster will automatically receive an invitation to attend an appointment when it is their turn.
I am fully committed to our principle of leave no one behind, and you are still able to get your first or second dose if you have not had it yet. The vaccine is a vital step in our way out of the pandemic and keeping Wales safe.