If you are worrying that you have left it too late to get your free COVID-19 and flu vaccinations, then don’t. If you are eligible, you have up until 31 January to book in for your COVID-19 vaccination and flu jabs are available until 31 March.
More than 420,000 COVID-19 vaccinations have been delivered to people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, those who have an increased risk of getting seriously ill, and frontline health and care workers. But that still leaves 40% of those eligible who haven’t come forward for their free vaccination.
In addition to the COVID-19 jabs, more than 595,000 flu vaccinations have also been administered. Getting a flu jab in January ensures that you're protected when the risk of contracting the flu is at its highest.
Dr Matt Nisbet, a local GP and clinical lead for the COVID-19 vaccination programme at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: “With cases of flu rising across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight it is more important than ever to get vaccinated. It is the best way for people to ensure they and their families are protected against the viruses, especially at this time of year as they spread more easily when people spend more time indoors.
“It isn’t too late to get vaccinated, but it is important to book in as soon as possible as it takes about two weeks following vaccination to build up your maximum defence against the viruses. It is crucial to get this protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and the viruses change each year.”
Those eligible for both COVID-19 and flu vaccines this year include:
- those aged 65 years and over
- residents in a care home for older adults
- persons aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group. This includes people who have been diagnosed with a chronic respiratory disease, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, diabetes and pregnant women.
- frontline health and social care workers, including staff in care homes for older adults
There are also a number of people who are not eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination but can have a free flu vaccination. They are:
- 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
Parents and carers of 2-3-year-olds are also being encouraged to get their little ones booked in for a flu vaccination. The vaccine is offered as a nasal spray, which is painless and involves two quick squirts up their nostril.
The Hampshire and Isle of Wight COVID-19 vaccination helpline remains open to respond to any queries. The helpline number is 0300 561 0018 and the line is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.
If you are experiencing cold and flu symptoms on the day of your vaccinations, it is advisable to rebook your appointment for when you are well.
You can book your flu and COVID-19 vaccine, by downloading the NHS App, contacting your GP or local Community Pharmacy directly, or by calling 119 free if you cannot get online. Further information on who is eligible for free vaccinations this winter can be found on our Get Winter Strong webpages.