Oxfordshire,
04
October
2022
|
14:32
Europe/London

Eligible groups encouraged to get their flu and COVID boosters

People in Oxfordshire who are eligible to get annual winter flu and COVID boosters are encouraged to do so at the earliest opportunity, with cases of COVID on the rise once again both locally and nationally.

The flu vaccine and COVID booster are both available for free for those at higher risk of illness or who are pregnant, frontline health and social care workers, and for those aged 50 years and over. The flu vaccine is also available for younger children in the form of a nasal spray.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “While flu and COVID are unpleasant for most people, they can be dangerous and even life-threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions, and cases of both the flu and COVID already appear to be on the rise. Now is the perfect time to get a booster to stay protected against both. 

“Not only can the vaccine give you extra protection, it can also reduce the risk of you passing on a virus to somebody else – which is particularly important if you are a carer. Keep yourself and those around you safe against these viruses by getting vaccinated when invited.

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to thank all our amazing volunteers across our Oxfordshire who have helped to ensure the vaccination programme remains a success.”

The vaccine is available through schools for school-aged children, and pregnant women can get it through their GP practice, pharmacy or maternity service.

The COVID-19 and the flu vaccine can be given on the same day, and some people may be able to get both vaccines at the same time. However, this may not always be possible, so people are encouraged to get each vaccination as soon as they can rather than waiting to get them at the same time.

Find out more about the vaccinations and how to book an appointment by visiting www.nhs.uk/flujab and www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.

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