Almost 900,000 flu and COVID-19 vaccination appointments are available across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight for those who are eligible for this year’s campaign, which starts on Thursday (3rd October).
Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help stop the spread of winter respiratory illnesses and help keep symptoms mild should you get flu or COVID-19.
Dr Matt Nisbet, Hampshire GP and clinical lead for vaccinations for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, says:
“In this country vaccines have a solid safety record and inarguably are one of the best ways to protect yourselves from illnesses.
“As we prepare to enter the colder months, we know respiratory illnesses such as flu and COVID-19 become more common.
“Symptoms can range from feeling quite unpleasant for some people right up to hospitalisation for others which is something we want to avoid.
“These vaccinations provide vital protection, helping to prevent serious illnesses and reduce hospital admissions during the busy winter months.
“It is also safe to have both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations in one appointment, which can save you time by only attending one appointment.”
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In line with advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, those eligible for a flu vaccine this year include:
- those aged 65 years and over
- those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups
- those in long-stay residential care homes
- carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person
- close contacts of immunocompromised individuals
- frontline workers in health and social care settings
Those eligible for an Autumn COVID-19 booster are:
- residents in a care home for older adults
- all adults aged 65 years and over
- persons aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group
- frontline health and social care workers and staff in care homes for older adults
The vaccination programme for flu began in September as pregnant women and children aged 2 to 16 were the first to be offered the vaccination.
People can book their flu and COVID-19 vaccine via the NHS website, by downloading the NHS App, or by calling 119 free if they cannot get online.
In addition, the NHS will be sending out invitations to those eligible to get their jabs, while GP practices and other local NHS services will also be contacting people to offer the vaccines.
