Eligible groups encouraged to get their flu and COVID boosters as programme is brought forward
People in Oxfordshire who are eligible for annual winter flu and COVID jabs are being encouraged to get vaccinated as soon as possible, with the booster programme now launching for people most at risk on 11 September.
The flu and COVID booster vaccines are both available for free for all those aged 65 or over; residents in care homes for older adults; persons aged six to 64 in a clinical risk group; frontline health and social care workers; those aged 12 to 64 living in households with immunosuppressed people; and those aged 16 to 64 who are carers.
Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director for Public Health, said: “While flu and COVID is often just an unpleasant inconvenience, they can be dangerous and even life-threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions. In response to detection of a potentially concerning new COVID-19 variant in England, the NHS has decided to accelerate the roll-out of its winter flu and COVID vaccination programme.
“The vaccination programme aims to provide those who need the most protection with the help they need as soon as possible. Getting the vaccine not only gives you extra protection but also helps to reduce the risk of passing on the virus to someone else. Please do come forward for your vaccination when invited to keep yourself and those around you safe.
“And as with any respiratory infection, if you have a high temperature or feel unwell, do try to stay at home and avoid contact with others. If you do need to leave the house, you can reduce your risk of passing on your infection by avoiding crowded places, ensuring rooms are well ventilated, wearing a face covering and regularly washing your hands.”
Where possible, the COVID-19 and the flu vaccine will be given on the same day.
Find out more about the vaccinations and how to book an appointment by visiting nhs.uk/flujab and nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.
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