The government has announced that the Covid-19 vaccination programme will be prioritising jabs for people aged 16 and over who live with adults who have weakened immune systems, following guidance from the UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccinations & Immunisations (JCVI).

This includes conditions such as blood cancer, HIV and those on immunosuppressive treatment including chemotherapy.

Currently, individuals who have a weakened immune system and those on immunosuppressive treatment are receiving their vaccination through the Priority Four (clinically extremely vulnerable) or Priority Six (adults with underlying conditions making them susceptible to COVID) groups; however, the vaccinations haven’t been extended to those who live in the same household until now - unless they have been invited by age already.

The new guidance is based on evidence that susceptibility to infection is reduced in those who have been vaccinated, and so vaccinating individuals aged 16+ living with an adult who is immunocompromised is considered to be a beneficial approach by increasing protection.

Health Minister David Ashford asked anyone who fits this criteria to contact 111 and identify themselves as ‘living with’, even if they haven’t received a letter yet, in order to arrange their vaccination for which they will be prioritised.