The NHS delivered a record number of COVID-19 booster jabs last week, according to the latest figures.

Around 1.6 million coronavirus booster doses were given out – the highest weekly total yet, the NHS in England said.

So far, more than eight million booster jabs have been delivered across the UK – including some 820,000 since Friday.

But John Roberts, from the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, voiced concerns that the first priority groups will not all receive their booster jabs by Christmas.

However, NHS England disputed Mr Roberts’ claims, saying that six weeks into the initial rollout it had delivered 4.1 million jabs and six weeks into the booster programme it had delivered more than seven million boosters.

The NHS has stepped up efforts to get peope have the jab when offered and has opened up hundreds of walk-in sites across the country.

Experts have warned that decreasing immunity from the vaccines could cause a rise in severe disease and hospital admissions.

Most will be offered a booster jab in the six months after having their second dose.

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Dr Nikki Kanani, deputy lead for the NHS vaccination programme in England, said: “Thanks to the huge efforts of NHS staff, the NHS Covid-19 vaccination programme has now vaccinated more than seven million people across England with vital booster doses ahead of winter, just over six weeks since the rollout began.

“A further 1.6 million invites are going out this week to people who are eligible and hundreds of walk-in sites are now also available for those eligible for boosters, making it easier than ever to get this important extra protection as we go into the winter period.

“I’ve had my booster – it was quick and easy and I know it’s giving me extra protection ahead of winter. I would encourage anyone receiving an invite to come forward as soon as possible, it will protect you and your loved ones.”

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