Eligible patients urged to take up winter flu and Covid vaccinations

Health leaders are urging eligible people to arrange their seasonal flu and Covid-19 vaccinations as the NHS winter programme gets under way.

Adults can now book appointments through the NHS website or NHS App, while vaccinations will also be available from participating GP practices, pharmacies, care homes and walk-in clinics. People do not need to wait for an invitation before arranging an appointment.

Dr Nil Sanganee, chief medical officer for the NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, said the vaccines “really do save lives” and encouraged people to secure protection before winter viruses begin circulating more widely.

He warned that flu and Covid-19 can cause serious illness among vulnerable patients, sometimes leading to pneumonia and hospital treatment. Protection gained from previous vaccinations can also decline over time and may be less effective against newer variants.

Free flu vaccinations are available to people aged 65 and over, adults with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, care home residents and eligible carers. Frontline health and social care workers, close contacts of people with weakened immune systems and people experiencing homelessness may also qualify.

Eligibility for the autumn Covid-19 vaccination is narrower. It covers adults aged 75 and over, residents of care homes for older people and those aged six months or above who have weakened immune systems because of a health condition or treatment.

The flu programme began earlier for pregnant women and children, including two and three-year-olds and pupils from reception to Year 11. NHS leaders want most eligible people to receive their vaccinations by the end of November, ahead of the period when respiratory illnesses commonly place the greatest pressure on health services.

Both vaccines can be given during the same appointment where this is suitable. Anyone uncertain about their eligibility has been advised to contact their GP surgery, pharmacist or specialist healthcare team.

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