Spring booster jabs of the COVID-19 vaccine are now available for priority groups as infection rates in Dudley borough begin to rise.

All care home residents, people who are aged over 75, and people over the age of 12 with a weakened immune system are now eligible for a spring booster.

The seven-day rate of COVID-19 cases among all ages in Dudley borough is now 581.3 per 100,000 people. 1,874 new cases have been recorded in the past week, with cases among the over 60s rising by 9.8%.

Infections are increasing in all 24 wards of the borough, with particularly high averages reported in Norton, Halesowen South, Wollaston and Stourbridge Town, and Hayley Green and Cradley South. Karen Wright, director of public health at Dudley Council, said:

“We know that immunity to COVID-19 can begin to wane over time, so it’s important that we ensure people aged 75 and over and those with weakened immune systems maintain a high level of protection against the virus.

“The rise in infection rates in the past seven days is a firm reminder that COVID-19 is still with us. We need to continue to do simple things to protect our families and communities.

“I would encourage everyone in Dudley borough to practice safe behaviours like wearing a face covering in crowded or enclosed spaces, letting fresh air in when meeting indoors, washing your hands frequently, staying at home when you feel unwell and getting vaccinated. It’s never too late to get your first dose.”

People who are eligible for the spring booster will be contacted by the NHS by phone or text message when it is their turn. Once invited, appointments can be booked online or by calling 119.