People of Black, Black British, and Pakistani descent were fewer than half as likely to have received their boosters as those of White British descent.
MPs caution that the National Health Service must “redouble” its efforts to vaccinate hard-to-reach populations as coronavirus infections continue to climb.
The Public Accounts Committee encouraged health care to keep its “eye on the ball” in light of research indicating that over three million people in England remain unvaccinated.
The number of people testing positive for COVID-19 in the United Kingdom has increased by 29 percent to nearly 3.5 million, according to the most recent data.
The chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Dame Meg Hillier MP, commended the “successes” of NHS England’s initial vaccination rollout.
However, she stated, “Despite past efforts, low vaccination rates persist among numerous susceptible groups, and new strategies are required to reach them.”
In addition, the committee drew attention to the very low immunization rate that persists in many vulnerable groups.
90 percent of adults had received two doses of the vaccine by the end of May 2022, according to the organization’s data.
However, gaps expand when booster doses are considered.
Compared to those of White British descent, those of Black, Black British, and Pakistani descent were less likely to have received their boosters.
Ms. Hillier stated, “When you look at who hasn’t received their vaccine or who hasn’t had a booster, it tells a striking tale of injustice.”
“It is crucial that the Department and NHS England should not lose sight of future problems and the distribution of vaccines to hard-to-reach groups because of early success.”
In 2021, Dr. Sharon Raymond launched the Vaxi Taxi concept, which allows passengers to be injected into taxis.
She argues that addressing health disparities is “vitally crucial.
“Regarding immunization and health in general, I believe that we must look beyond the box.
Because we know that, for a variety of reasons, there are people across the country who face hurdles to obtaining NHS healthcare.
In preparation for winter, everyone over the age of 50 will receive a COVID-19 booster shot and a flu shot this fall.
Dr. Mary Ramsay, UKHSA’s head of Immunisation, stated: “Expanding eligibility for the flu vaccine will reduce the number of individuals who become very ill and relieve strains on the NHS, particularly during the busy winter months.
“Pregnant women, who are among those at a higher risk, are among those who should receive the COVID-19 booster vaccination when invited. COVID-19 infection during pregnancy can cause difficulties. Vaccination, including a booster, provides the highest level of protection for you and your infant.”
