All people over 25 in England can now book a Covid jab and Staffordshire County Council is encouraging younger people not to delay in booking their vaccination.

This introduction marks six months since the UK began its vaccination programme. More than 40 million people have had at least one vaccination so far.

Under the government's proposed timetable remaining restrictions are due to be removed on 21 June, however this is solely dependent on the data heading in the right direction.

Covid cases rates have increased nationally and in Staffordshire – with latest figures showing new cases have more than doubled in the last week. The council feels vaccine take up in younger people is crucial to stemming this recent rise.

Dr Richard Harling, Staffordshire County Council's director of health and care, said: "All adults getting both doses of the vaccine is vital for people to protect themselves and their family and put us in a position where we can safely navigate the final stage of the roadmap.

"We know younger people have made tremendous sacrifices and have missed out on lots of activities like travel and larger sporting and music events.

"After everybody's hard work these are finally in touching distance and it is critical people aged 25-29 do not delay or put off getting their vaccine.

"You do not need to wait to be contacted – I would urge younger people to book your appointment as soon as possible and join the millions who are already protected.

"Get your jab, get tested regularly and keep following the rules currently in place and know that you have done your bit heading into the summer."

The below people can now book their vaccination appointments if:

- You're aged 25 or over

- You'll turn 25 before 1 July 2021

- You're at high risk from COVID-19 (clinically extremely vulnerable)

- You have a condition that puts you at higher risk (clinically vulnerable)

- You have a learning disability

- You're a frontline health or social care worker

- You get a Carer's Allowance, get support following an assessment by your local authority or your GP record shows you're a carer

You do not need to wait to be contacted by the NHS - people can book their vaccine by visiting the NHS Book a coronavirus vaccination website or calling 119.