Islanders who turn 18 years old within the next three months can now get their first coronavirus vaccine dose.

It follows the recent advice published by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.

Those eligible can now book an appointment online or walk into Fort Regent at specified times.

That is between 5pm and 6pm today (30 July) and over the weekend between 8:30am and 3:30pm.

The Operations Lead of the vaccine programme, Ross Barnes, says the walk-ins have been successful so far and it will be continued if it continues that way.

More than 100 people have got their first dose at Fort Regent without an appointment since the drop-ins began on Monday 26 July.

76% of adults in Jersey are now fully vaccinated against coronavirus.

85% of over 18s have had one dose.

The government is hoping to get more than 80% fully vaccinated by the middle of next month.

"I am pleased that we will now be able to offer first doses to Islanders who are turning 18 within three months, and I hope those Islanders come to the vaccination centre this week with their friends and make use of the walk-in appointments available. 

"Just over three-quarters of the Island’s adult population are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 which is great to see. By getting your first dose, Islanders are on the journey to being fully vaccinated, and are giving themselves, their friends, and family, good protection against the virus." - Becky Sherrington, Head of the Vaccination Programme.

The vaccine will continue to be available post-mid-August, but the focus will then turn to delivering a booster programme if the JCVI gives the go-ahead.

"We won't close the doors to islanders who up until that point have not had a first or a second dose, so that will still be available whilst the vaccination programme in its current state is still running." - Ross Barnes, Operations Lead.

The government is still waiting on further information before making decisions about vaccinating more teenagers.

The JCVI has recommended that 12 to 15-year-olds with severe neurodisabilities, Down’s syndrome, immunosuppression and multiple or severe learning disabilities, be offered the vaccine.

The committee has also recommended that children and young people aged 12 to 17 should be offered the vaccine if they live with with an immunosuppressed person.