Patients Face Pharmacist Abuse Over Denied NHS Covid Jabs Following Eligibility Rule Change
A recent shift in NHS Covid-19 vaccination eligibility is causing frustration and, in some cases, abuse directed towards pharmacists, as many patients are unaware of the narrowed criteria for receiving a free jab this winter. The confusion coincides with a 60 per cent rise in hospital stays for patients with the virus, attributed too a new Covid variant known as XFG.
The NHS England website now states that the Covid jab is only available on the NHS this year for individuals who are aged 75 or over; are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system due to a health condition or treatment; or reside in a care home for older adults. Conditions listed as potentially weakening the immune system include blood cancer, organ transplants, HIV, those undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
While patients booking their Covid jab through the NHS website are asked to self-declare if they are immunosuppressed,this declaration is not verified untill the appointment itself.This has led to situations where individuals, believing they qualify, are turned away by pharmacists, resulting in anger and, reportedly, abusive behavior.
UK Health Security Agency data reveals the hospitalisation rate for Covid rose to 2.73 per 100,000 last week, up from 1.71 per 100,000 at the end of August. At the end of August, 1,216 patients with the disease were already hospitalised in England.
An NHS England spokesperson stated: ‘The JCVI decides who is eligible for a Covid vaccination and this winter it is those aged 75 or over, anyone with a weakened immune system, or those living in older adult care homes, which is made clear when you book online. If you are at risk, it is vital that you come forward to get vaccinated as soon as possible – you should check your eligibility before self-declaring and booking an appointment, and there is data about which conditions and medicines make you eligible on our website.’
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson echoed this, saying: ‘The Government is committed to protecting those most vulnerable to COVID-19 through vaccination, as guided by the autonomous Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation. in line with JCVI advice, the autumn 2025 program is focused on targeted vaccination of the oldest adults – those aged 75 years and over and residents in a care home for older adults – and individuals who are immunosuppressed.These are the two groups who continue to be at higher risk of serious disease, including mortality.’
The DHSC also advises individuals experiencing respiratory illness symptoms – such as a high temperature, cough, and fatigue - to limit contact with others and consider wearing a face covering when leaving home. They also recommend regular handwashing, tissue disposal, and ensuring good ventilation in indoor spaces.
