NHS urge residents to their book vaccination slots
NHS HAMPSHIRE & IOW have announced that appointments for flu and Covid-19 vaccinations are now available across the region as part of their annual campaign; which began on Wednesday (October 1) and residents are advised to book a slot if they are eligible.
Flu vaccinations are now available for those aged over sixty-five years or over and people in a clinical risk group, whilst there is a wider eligibility for Covid-19 vaccinations. This includes those aged seventy-five or over, care home residents and adults / children aged six months or over who have a weakened immune system.
The vaccination programme for flu began in September for pregnant women and children aged 2 to 16; with eligible people encouraged to continue coming forward to vaccinated. Two -and three-year-olds can now get vaccinated against flu at local pharmacies for the first time ever to offer protection during the winter months.
Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help stop the spread of winter respiratory illnesses and help keep symptoms mild if people do get flu or COVID-19. The recently published NHS 10-year health plan commits to a shift from sickness to prevention and the local vaccination campaign will continue to play an important part in protecting as many vulnerable people as possible before winter viruses start to spread.
Dr Michele Legg, Clinical Lead for the NHS Hampshire & IOW Vaccination Programme, said: “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.
They continued: “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 together at the same time, which can save you time by only attending one appointment.”
There are multiple ways to get a flu or Covid-19 vaccination If people are eligible for one, although many will be invited directly via their GP practice. But residents don’t have to wait for an invitation and can book using the online National Booking System; which can be done by calling 119 or via the NHS App.
If there is any doubts or questions about whether a certain health condition makes readers eligible, they can contact the NHS Hampshire & IoW Vaccination Helpline Team on 0300 561 0018. They will be able to give callers more information and can further assist in booking an appointment if required.
PICTURED BY NHS HAMPSHIRE & IOW: People are encouraged to book their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations this winter if eligible under new campaign, which began this week.
