Experts warn that the deadline to prevent Christmas Covid is rapidly approaching.

The Government states that BRITS will have a limited amount of time to get their booster shot if they want maximum protection for Christmas Day.

After last year of being separated by lockdown rules, families will soon get together to celebrate the big day.

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There are no plans at the moment to place a limit on Christmas celebrations.

Although this is great news, it does mean that Covid transmission from family members remains a possibility, even though millions have been vaccinated.

In order to have more than 90 per cent protection against Covid illness and hospitalisation, experts say it’s time those eligible book their top-up jab.

After an injection, it takes approximately 14 days for antibodies grow.

For optimal protection, the deadline is December 11.

A Department of Health and Social care spokesperson said: “People who have had their booster vaccine by 11 December will have very high protection against Covid-19 by Christmas Day.

“Following a rise in cases and a return of lockdown restrictions in Europe, those eligible for a booster have been urged to take up the offer as soon as possible to protect themselves, their families and help to reduce the pressure on the NHS.”

Over the past weeks, Europe has been hit by a wave of infectious diseases that has forced authorities to shut down entire regions.

Experts believe the UK will not suffer the same fate, provided boosters are taken in large numbers.

You can get a booster vaccine if you are over the age of 40 and it’s been six months since your second dose.

You can book a booster as soon as you reach the age of five months.

The top-up can be provided to the clinically vulnerable, as well as health and social care workers, regardless of their age.

People over 12 years old who have been severely immunosuppressed (e.g., those with advanced HIV or organ transplants) are eligible for a third dose.

Up to 16 million people in Britain have received a booster or third dose of the vaccine.

A number of Britain’s biggest charities have backed the booster campaign.

There are 16 charities that encourage vulnerable people to accept the offer of a top up jab, including Cancer Research UK, Diabetes UK, and The British Heart Foundation.

Patients will be encouraged to get vaccinated against the flu, another winter virus that can cause death.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “I am hugely grateful to all the charities who are backing our vaccine campaign and supporting some of the most vulnerable in our society.

“With winter approaching, it’s so important that those who are at risk from the virus are protected in order to keep themselves safe.

“The vaccines are safe and effective and are helping us build a wall of defence against Covid-19. Please come forward for yours as soon as you can.”

Vaccines Minister Maggie Throup said: “The fight against COVID-19 through the vaccines is a national mission and it’s brilliant to see so many different organisations step up to help get this message to those most at-risk.

“If you’re yet to get your first, second or booster dose, please do come forward for the jab as soon as possible.”