NHS announce vaccine appointment availability
By Priya Mistry
NHS HAMPSHIRE & IOW have announced that more flu and Covid-19 vaccination appointments are available across the region from this month as they continue to ensure protection is in place for eligible people before the colder months arrive.
The increased ability started last Thursday (October 1) with flu vaccinations being available to a wider group of people; including those who are aged sixty-five or over and those who will be sixty-five by March 31 next year. Residents who are aged from 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions are further eligible, as well as those who are pregnant or live in a care home.
Eligibility also includes those who are the main carer for older / disabled person (or receive a carer’s allowance), as well as those who live with somebody who has a weakened immune system. The final two groups cover those who are experiencing homelessness or staying in a hostel or night shelter and those who are health / social care workers via their employer.
Long term health conditions include people living with chronic respiratory disease, heart or vascular disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or diabetes. This follows on from groups such as children aged from two to three years, school age children and pregnant women; who have been able to get the flu vaccine since September 1. COVID-19 vaccinations are now also available for people aged 75 and over, residents in care homes, and people aged six months and over who have a weakened immune system.
Dr Charlotte Hutchings, GP and Vaccination Lead, 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. 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.”
It is also possible for eligible people to have their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time, making it easier for people to get protected in a single appointment. There are several ways to get vaccinated; with many people being invited directly by their GP practice or another NHS service.
However, if people think they might be eligible, they do not need to wait to be invited and can book through the National Booking Service (NBS), by calling 119, or via the NHS App, where available. If they would like an appointment on the Isle of Wight, they are asked to please consider using the St Mary’s Hospital postcode of PO30 5TG to help search for island-based appointments.
Further information about eligibility and the national vaccination programmes is available via nhs.uk. Readers can further call the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Vaccination helpline on 0300 561 0018, which is open from Monday to Friday during the times of 9am to 4pm.
PICTURED BY NHS HAMPSHIRE & IOW: The local medical trust has announced that more flu and Covid-19 vaccination appointments are available across the region from this month.
