The island will be following suit with the UK and offering 16- and 17-year-olds their second Covid vaccine doses, and offering a booster jab to all those over 40.

Both moves come after the latest advice from the UK’s Joint Commission on Vaccination and Immunisation, which the island follows.

The JCVI has reviewed the latest evidence on the benefits and risks of vaccination, concluding that the balance supports offering all young people aged 16 and 17 who are not in an at-risk group, a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine at least 12 weeks after their first dose.

The vaccination team are currently planning the rollout of second doses to young people and will be in touch shortly.

Health Minister Lawrie Hooper commented: ’Covid cases have been circulating among older teens over the last few months.

’By offering a second dose to this age group, we will be increasing their protection against the virus.

’I encourage everyone to come forward for their vaccine when invited.’

Anyone in this age group who has contracted Covid-19 after having their first vaccine will only be allowed their second dose 12 weeks after the positive test or onset of symptoms.

As for the boosters, approximately 6,000 more residents will now be offered a third jab.

It comes as nearly 13,000 residents have come forward to receive their additional dose since the start of the booster rollout in early October.

The government said that evidence from trials shows that protection provided by the first and second doses against symptomatic disease, hospitalisation and death from Covid-19 declines over time, especially among older and at-risk individuals.

It explained that these booster doses are being given to increase protection over the winter months, with data from the UK’s Health Security Agency showing that a booster increases protection back to over 90% against symptomatic Covid-19.

Mr Hooper said: ’By expanding the eligibility for the booster to include those aged 40 and over, it means that we are providing more of the community the chance to top-up their declining immunity ahead of winter.

’A drop in immunity following the first two primary doses could result in an uptick in cases and hospitalisation, resulting in added pressures for our health services in an already busy winter period. The encouraging results from the UKHSA highlight the importance of why those eligible should receive the booster.

The minister added: ’I urge anyone who is eligible and receives their invite to please come forward and take up the opportunity to get the booster. Apart from protecting yourself, it is the single most useful thing you can do to help prevent a surge in demand on the health care services at its busiest time of year.’

Invites are in the process of being sent out to all eligible cohorts who have reached the six months mark following their second dose.

Anyone who is unable to attend their appointment is asked to either call 111 or email [email protected] to rearrange at the earliest possible opportunity.