Eligible Islanders can now book flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as the NHS steps up its autumn and winter vaccination programme across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.
Flu vaccinations are now available to a wider group of people, including those aged 65 and over and adults with certain long-term health conditions.
Those eligible for a flu vaccine also include pregnant women, care home residents, main carers, people living with someone who has a weakened immune system, people experiencing homelessness and frontline health and social care workers through their employer.
Long-term health conditions covered by the programme include chronic respiratory disease, heart or vascular disease, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes.
Children aged 2-3, school-age children and pregnant women have already been able to receive the flu vaccine since Tuesday (1st September).
COVID-19 vaccinations are also now available for people aged 75 and over, care home residents and people aged 6 months and over who have a weakened immune system.
Dr Charlotte Hutchings, GP and Vaccination Lead for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, has said:
“As we head into autumn and winter, we know that respiratory viruses such as flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness, particularly for older people, young children, pregnant women and those living with certain health conditions.
Article continues below this advertisement “Getting vaccinated is one of the simplest things eligible people can do to protect themselves and those around them. It can reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell and needing hospital treatment, helping people to stay well and enjoy the winter months.
“We know that it takes time for protection to build after vaccination, so I would encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward as soon as they can rather than waiting until winter is already underway.
“By taking steps to protect our health before we become unwell, we can help people stay healthier for longer and reduce avoidable pressure on NHS services.”
Eligible people can have their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time.
Many people will be contacted directly by their GP practice or another NHS service, but those who believe they are eligible do not need to wait for an invitation.
Appointments can be booked through the National Booking Service, by calling 119 or through the NHS App where available.
Islanders searching for local appointments are being advised to use the St Mary’s Hospital postcode, PO30 5TG, to help find Isle of Wight vaccination sites.
Anyone unsure about eligibility, or who needs help booking, can contact the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight COVID-19 Vaccination Helpline on 0300 561 0018 between 09:00-16:00, Monday to Friday.
