Eligible people will now be offered a COVID vaccine this month in order to give people as much protection from the new COVID variant ahead of winter.
Care home residents will be the first to be vaccinated against COVID from 11 September and from 18 September those who are eligible will be able to book an appointment on the NHS website, via 119 or through the NHS app.
The NHS has been asked to bring the winter vaccination programme forward and we are working quickly to ensure as many eligible people as possible are vaccinated against COVID and flu by the end of October. GPs and pharmacies will be working hard to deliver flu vaccinations to eligible populations this autumn.
Carers, pregnant women, and health and social care staff will all be among the groups to be offered a COVID and flu jab this winter, as well as adults aged 65 and over and those with certain long-term health conditions.
Children aged two and three-years old will be able to get a flu vaccination via their GP and parents will be contacted regarding flu vaccinations for school-aged children up to Year 11.
Adam Hayward, assistant director of vaccination and immunisations at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “COVID-19 is still a dangerous illness that can have life-threatening impacts for the most vulnerable people in our society – it is not a thing of the past.
“We would encourage everyone who is eligible for a flu and COVID vaccine to make sure they take up the offer ahead of the winter period. It is the best way to protect yourself against winter illnesses and it is a quick and easy process. You can book your vaccines on the NHS website or by calling 119, it will only take a few minutes.”
From 18 September, the NHS will start to invite people in priority order of risk and those eligible will be able to book an appointment on the NHS website, via 119 or through the NHS app.
There are a number of sites across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire at GPs, local pharmacies and vaccination hubs.
The NHS winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme provides vital protection to those eligible and their families over winter, keeping people from developing serious illnesses, and helping to minimise hospitalisations during busy winter months.
You can find a full list of who is eligible for COVID and flu vaccinations on the NHS website. If you are unsure, please talk to your GP or consultant.