A TOP doctor is appealing for young people to get vaccinated as Covid-19 cases soar.

To date Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) has administered more than 360,000 booster jabs, providing important additional protection to 72 per cent of the eligible population.

Despite this take up, there are still about 100,000 - mostly younger people - who have yet to come forward.

Dr Nick Lyons, executive medical director for Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB), said: “Over the last two weeks we've seen an increase in people coming forward for their first and second doses of the Covid-19 vaccine and very encouraging take up of booster jabs.

"We’ve issued an update on our Covid-19 vaccination programme, including an appeal for younger people to make getting their first, second or booster jab a priority as cases continue to increase.

"Despite this hugely encouraging take up, there are still around 100,000 mostly younger people who have yet to come forward."

Four reasons have been outlined for why people should come forward for their jab:

  • To help avoid the need for further restrictions.
  • Getting the first, second and booster jab and following the latest public health advice is the best way to avoid a return to further restrictions – protecting the economy, freedoms, education and jobs
  • Research shows that getting vaccinated significantly reduces the risk of catching or spreading the virus and becoming seriously ill with the virus. The vaccine will also protect people from the debilitating long-term effects of Long-Covid which can last for months.
  • To protect loved ones, friends and those most vulnerable to infection

Dr Lyons added: "Please don't be complacent at news that Omicron is a milder form of the virus.

"It is far more transmissible than the Alpha or Delta variants, it will find those who are unvaccinated or have suppressed immune systems - with potentially serious consequences."

Book online https://bcuhb.nhs.wales/covid-19/covid-19-vaccinations/covid-19-booster-programme-online-booking