Health officials express concern over low jab uptake among over-16s and school-age children

Health officials in London have revealed that as many as 2.7 million residents over the age of 16 have yet to receive their first Covid-19 vaccination. The alarming figure, shared by Professor Kevin Fenton, the city’s public health chief, highlights the challenge of addressing vaccine hesitancy in the capital.

Professor Fenton noted the issue is particularly concentrated in nine boroughs, including Hackney, Brent, Newham, Camden, and Westminster, where more than a third of residents remain unvaccinated. Hackney’s mayor, Phil Glanville, reported that 100,000 people in his borough alone have not had a jab.

The low uptake is also evident among younger populations. Just 30% of Londoners aged 12 to 15 have been vaccinated, the lowest rate in the UK. In some boroughs, fewer than 10% of eligible schoolchildren have come forward for the jab. The disparity has been attributed to mixed messaging about vaccine safety, confusion among parents, and even threats faced by school nurses from anti-vaccination activists.

Sharon White, head of the School and Public Health Nurses’ Association, said many parents are uncertain about the risks and benefits of vaccinating their children. “School nurses often don’t have the time needed to address these concerns and guide parents through an informed decision,” she explained.

Despite the challenges, London leads in administering booster doses, which make up 80% of the 40,000 daily vaccinations in the city. More than 13 million doses, including 1.3 million boosters, have been administered so far. The NHS continues its efforts with over 400 vaccination sites, collaborations with schools, and outreach involving community and faith leaders.

Dr. Vin Diwakar, NHS London’s medical director, praised the ongoing efforts to vaccinate Londoners but urged those still unvaccinated to come forward to protect themselves and others. “Vaccination sites are accessible across the city, and it’s never too late to get your first jab,” he said.

Meanwhile, disagreements remain over the exact number of unvaccinated individuals, with estimates ranging from 1.2 million (according to NHS England) to 2.7 million (UK Health Security Agency). Regardless of the figure, health officials acknowledge the significant task of convincing those yet to be vaccinated.

The government continues to encourage eligible individuals to book their vaccinations online or through the NHS helpline. People aged 40 to 49 will also be eligible to book booster jabs from Monday, November 22.

As London faces the dual challenges of vaccine hesitancy and rising Covid cases among schoolchildren, officials warn that the winter months could bring further disruptions if vaccination rates do not improve.