To think anyone should be able to get the Covid boosters if they pay for it

[goaskmum]

So, a new booster is coming soon but it will only be provided to vulnerable people.

AIBU to think that if non-eligible people want it also that they should be allowed to get it from the likes of Boots as long as the pay for it just like non-eligible people can do with the flu vaccine?

I’ve had my two primary doses my booster dose and going by the eligibility criteria for the fourth dose, I’m not eligible for it and may never be (unless they open it up to everyone at some stage) but I wouldn’t object to getting it to protect myself even more.

I support the fact that there are no more covid restrictions, I hated them the same as everyone else and I’m glad they are gone I hope they never come back but I think it’s unfair that if you want the vaccine you can’t get it, I’d be happy enough to pay for it and have it.

@Juno22

No I don't agree. It should be rolled out in the way that the vaccinations and boosters were previously. I can afford to pay but I don't think I should be able to jump the queue.

There isn't a queue.

There are countries where that is unmet demand/need for vaccination, but apparently the problem is not lack of vaccine availability, so people in the UK buying extra vaccines won't make a difference.

Getoff But they're not available yet, so how can we say there isn't a queue. I'm in my 50s but would expect those older than me to be offered the booster first. I don't think I should be able to pay to get ahead of someone else.

@pussycatunpickingcrossesagain

We'd happily pay for one each...there's no point vaccinating my DH (who is 60 with heart issues) and not me. If cases continue to rise, there may well be a(nother) U turn and it will be offered more widely. The "grey pound" I hate that expression still has a big impact on the economy, and the economy is all this Government of the Talentless is concerned with.

It's nothing to do with a U turn 🙄

The JCVI are the ones who determine who is eligible to receive it & they're constantly monitoring the situation. The people they say need it/will benefit ARE getting it, the Govts not holding out on anyone.

Personally as a ECV/CEV (advised to shield) I'd like another booster, but I'm not as high up the list as the people who are currently eligible - which to be honest, I'm glad about.

When people a bit younger/with different conditions start getting seriously I'll I'm sure JCVI will see the balance move to them getting a booster.

There are some negatives re having too many boosters, so there's a balance.

It's NOT the same as paying for a flu jab as only one is available each year, so no downsides.

I don't think paying for one, whether JCVI thinks it's a good idea or not, is a good idea.

It's not a balance between 'efficacy & cost'

It's a balance between 'too many vaccines not being so effective (and allowing 'space' for a future vaccine if we get a more virulent strain) & a 'just in case' vaccine now.

I'm not sure I've explained that terrible well, but hopefully it helps a bit to see why paying for one, no matter where you are on the JCVI list, isn't a good idea.

I think if they have enough of them then yes. However those who are eligible should get priority.

And it's nothing to do with the Grey pound. I'm 26 and eligible...

@Juno22

Getoff But they're not available yet, so how can we say there isn't a queue. I'm in my 50s but would expect those older than me to be offered the booster first. I don't think I should be able to pay to get ahead of someone else.

They are available for people who are elegible. Those who are can walk in right now and get them.

So there isn't a queue...

Agree, would happily pay.

Don’t worry, it will be available before too long.

I’m sure everyone will get the option of a booster in the autumn. It was on sky news website yesterday that this is the likely way it will go. Just waiting for the jcvi to approve it (in the summer presumably)

I'm not saying YABU but can I disabuse you of the notion that all CEV are getting the 4th dose as a matter of course.
I attended for mine and was not given it. I am still young (ish - 50) and (thankfully) my health is currently good (CEV due to history of leukaemia).
I came away with the distinct impression that, whilst they may be handing it out like candy to the elderly, they are equally cognisant of the potential, and as yet unknown, long term effects of repeated doses of this new vaccine.
I understand you want to remain protected but you may need to watch and wait with this issue. HTH

@BettyBe

I'd definitely pay and know my parents in their early 70s would do too!

^ same here. I’d gladly pay up to £100 for 3 months protection (which is what they seem to give)

@tobedtoMN

I'm not saying YABU but can I disabuse you of the notion that all CEV are getting the 4th dose as a matter of course. I attended for mine and was not given it. I am still young (ish - 50) and (thankfully) my health is currently good (CEV due to history of leukaemia). I came away with the distinct impression that, whilst they may be handing it out like candy to the elderly, they are equally cognisant of the potential, and as yet unknown, long term effects of repeated doses of this new vaccine. I understand you want to remain protected but you may need to watch and wait with this issue. HTH

In had to attend my appointment for my 4th vaccine with a letter from hematology requesting that I be given it. I'm booked in for my 5th vaccine in 8 weeks time. Will your consultant give you a letter?

Possibly but currently I'm happy to wait.