Published on: 20 September 2023
The NHS in Herefordshire and Worcestershire is urging those eligible for COVID-19 vaccines and flu jabs to come forward to top up their protection as soon as possible. The vaccines can be administered together, at the same appointment. Both are vitally important to staying well this winter.
The flu and COVID-19 vaccine programme have been brought forward due to the risk from a new COVID variant, BA.2.86. The NHS will be working quickly to ensure as many eligible people as possible are vaccinated and protected by the end of October.
Those eligible to receive both the free COVID-19 and flu vaccines include everyone aged 65 and over, pregnant women, adults and children (aged 6 months and over) with certain health conditions, health and social care staff, carers and residents of care homes for older people.
From 18 September, those eligible will be able to book an appointment on the NHS website or the NHS App, and they will be able to get their jabs from Tuesday 19 September.
Those living in care homes are being prioritised and have already started to receive their vaccinations last week as local vaccination teams work to ensure those most vulnerable stay protected this winter.
To make getting jabs easier and closer to home for as many people as possible, dozens of NHS Community Pharmacies and GP practices across Herefordshire and Worcestershire will be offering COVID-19 and flu jabs: Book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
The NHS winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme provides vital protection to those eligible and their families as the colder weather approaches, keeping people from becoming seriously ill and reducing their risk of needing hospital treatment.
NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Will Taylor said: “We want to protect as many people and families as possible. Vaccinations are our best defence against COVID-19 and flu and we are making every effort to be ready for winter. The defence the vaccines give us wears off over time and with a new variant in circulation, everyone eligible needs to top-up their protection.
“It is safe and effective to receive the flu and COVID-19 jabs at the same time. There is no need to delay getting one or the other – getting your seasonal vaccines is vital so book yours in as soon as you can and encourage your eligible friends and family to do so too.”
