NHS East of England Rolls Out Flu and Covid Jabs Ahead of Winter Surge
The NHS in the East of England has officially kicked off its winter vaccination programme, offering flu and Covid-19 jabs to protect the most vulnerable as temperatures drop and respiratory illnesses rise.
Health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated early to avoid the pressure on hospitals expected during December and January.
Dr Eleanor Powers, head of public health commissioning for immunisations at NHS England East of England, said: “Cases of flu and Covid-19 are already on the rise in the East of England, and that’s only set to continue as we enter the colder months ahead.
Vaccination remains our best defence against these potentially life-threatening viruses, so I urge everyone eligible to come forward for their jabs.
Whether it’s at your local GP practice, pharmacy, your child’s school or other community clinic, it’s now easier than ever to get you and your family protected this winter, so don’t wait, get your appointment booked in today.”
The programme has expanded this year, including mobile vaccination vans for local communities and, for the first time, flu vaccines for two and three-year-olds at selected pharmacies.
Since early September, flu jabs have been offered to pregnant women and children through GP surgeries, maternity services, and schools.
Other groups eligible for the vaccines include adults aged 65 and over, under-65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents, carers, close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals, and frontline health and social care workers.
Following JCVI guidance, Covid-19 vaccinations are also available for adults aged 75 and over, care home residents, and immunosuppressed individuals.
Pregnant women are additionally eligible for vaccinations against whooping cough, RSV, and flu, helping safeguard both mother and child during the winter season.
If you’re pregnant, you’re eligible for flu, RSV and whooping cough vaccines. Speak to your midwife, GP practice or pharmacist about vaccinations. ⚕️
Visit https://t.co/FrRmEL9StD for more details. pic.twitter.com/DtSAV7JUkh
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With flu and Covid jabs now more accessible than ever, NHS officials are encouraging everyone in eligible groups to book early and stay protected.
