Vaccines are our best protection against flu and COVID-19. Over the last few years, they have kept tens of thousands of people out of hospital and helped to save countless lives.
In line with expert advice, the NHS is offering flu and COVID-19 vaccines to those at greater risk of serious illness this autumn and winter, and the offer has been brought forward following the emergence of the new BA.2.86 COVID-19 variant.
In winter, flu and COVID-19 spread more easily as we spend more time indoors. Getting these vaccines ahead of winter are two of the most important things you can do to keep yourself and others around you safe and get ‘winter strong’.
While flu and COVID-19 are unpleasant for most people they can be very dangerous and even life threatening for some, particularly people with certain health conditions, older people and pregnant women.
For those that are older, pregnant or with certain health conditions, catching flu can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse.
Catching both viruses over winter increases the risk of serious illness even more. Every winter, thousands die from flu and people can still become very ill or die from COVID-19.
NHS staff have worked hard to prepare for the earlier start date and to make it as easy and convenient as possible for people to get protection.
Those who can get both vaccines through the NHS will include everyone aged 65 and above, pregnant women, care home residents, people aged 6 months old or above with certain health conditions, frontline health and care staff, unpaid carers and household contacts of those at higher risk.
If eligible, you are encouraged to come forward as soon as you can due to the risk of the new variant, for the best possible protection. It is important to top up your protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year.
Winter flu and COVID-19 vaccinations started for adults on 11 September, including visits to residents of care homes and people who are housebound.
Other eligible adults can book their COVID-19 vaccine from the morning of 18 September, on the NHS App or by visiting www.nhs.uk/seasonalvaccinations.
Those who can’t get online can also make a booking at one of the same sites by calling 119 for free. Some areas will also be offering local walk-in COVID-19 vaccinations and more information will be shared about these in the coming weeks.
Eligible under-18s will be able to book the COVID-19 vaccine from October.
You can find out the latest information about both vaccines and how to book by visiting www.nhs.uk/seasonalvaccinations.
Booking a vaccine is quick and easy, it usually takes just a few minutes.
Protect yourself this winter. Get your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. Get winter strong.