Preparations are underway to deliver the Covid booster jab to eligible residents living in Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion.

In line with new guidance set out by the JCVI on Tuesday (September 14), the Hywel Dda University Health Board said it will soon invite eligible people, who had their second Covid jab at least six months ago, for a top up.

The health board said it was also preparing to offer 12-15 year-olds across the region a coronavirus vaccine.

Bethan Lewis, interim assistant director of public health for Hywel Dda UHB, said: “The Hywel Dda vaccination programme team is ready to deliver the autumn booster campaign and offer a vaccine to 12-15 year olds following yesterday’s announcement.

“Those eligible for a booster vaccination and 12 -15 year olds will be invited to attend a mass vaccination centre by the health board when it is their turn. Residential care homes will be supported by GP practices. We kindly ask people to not contact the health board or their GP practice at this time to ask about the vaccine.

“In Wales we will leave no one behind, and our walk-in clinics remain open at all mass vaccination centres but only for those aged 16 and over who require a first or second dose. Thank you for your patience and understanding.”

Who is eligible for a booster?

The JCVI recommends that individuals who were eligible and received vaccination in Phase 1 of the COVID-19 vaccination programme (priority groups 1-9) should be offered a third dose COVID-19 booster vaccine with a minimum six-month interval after the second dose.

• Those living in residential care homes for older adults

• All adults aged 50 years or over

• Frontline health and social care workers

• All those aged 16 to 49 years with underlying health conditions that put them at higher risk of severe COVID-19 (as set out in the Green Book), and adult carers

• Adult household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals

As most younger adults will only receive their second Covid-19 vaccine dose in late summer, the benefits of booster vaccination in this group will be considered at a later time, by the JCVI, when more information is available.