All adults with learning disabilities should now be invited to get a coronavirus vaccination, the UK’s advisory body has said.

It follows calls from BBC presenter Jo Whiley to prioritise the more at risk group, after she was offered a jab before her sister Frances, who has a learning disability.

The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) pointed out that people with severe and profound learning disabilities are already part of group six, which includes adults aged 16-64 with underlying health conditions. But the body is now advising the Government and NHS to invite all people on the GP learning disability register for a jab.

The Health Secretary Matt Hancock said he welcomed the advice and would ask the NHS to implement it immediately.

Ms Whiley has previously questioned why she was offered one before her sister, who has the rare Cri du Chat genetic syndrome, and her campaign calling for changes to be made captured public attention.

The JCVI believes measures can now be taken to get 150,000 people with learning disabilities vaccinated more quickly.

Recent analysis for the JCVI showed a higher risk of mortality and morbidity in those on the GP register.

‘The JCVI will continue to consider the emerging evidence and will keep its advice under review.’

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