Health authorities in south west London are urging residents to take up their Covid-19 booster vaccines in the coming weeks amid resurgent high Covid-19 infection rates in the region.

On Monday (October 25), the NHS's South West London CCG issued a plea for everyone eligible to take up their booster jab as several boroughs in the area recorded London's highest infection rates (see below) according to the latest Public Health England (PHE) data.

South west London GP Dr Nicola Jones led the group's call for booster vaccine take up, pointing out how the colder months present more serious risks regarding Covid-19 and its transmission through communities.

"If you’re eligible, don’t wait to get a booster jab – book in to top up your protection as soon as possible," she said. "I would urge everyone to come forward for the booster dose when it’s their turn. The vaccines remain the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community as we head into winter, when we know Covid-19 can present a bigger risk to our health. Please also remember to have your free flu jab to ensure the best possible protection in the months ahead," Dr Jones added.

According to the CCG, more than five million people in the UK have already received the additional life-saving jab since the largest vaccination programme in NHS history began administering them a month ago.

The NHS is currently following guidance that boosters should be delivered at least six months after the second dose, with current evidence suggesting this is the best time to increase immunity to Covid-19.

Below is a list of infection rates per 100,000 people for every south west London borough in the seven days up to October 20, according to the latest PHE data.

Click here for the latest Covid-19 data were you live. 

  • Croydon — 256.1
  • Sutton — 537.8
  • Merton — 315.3
  • Lambeth — 195.8
  • Wandsworth — 286.9
  • Richmond — 490.1
  • Kingston — 449.4
  • Epsom and Ewell — 476.5
  • Reigate and Banstead — 570.2