Get your vaccines this New Year

As people return to work and school, health leaders in the South West are urging people to come forward to get their booster and flu vaccinations this New Year.

More than 80% of eligible adults in have now received their Covid-19 booster vaccination in the region.  With Omicron continuing to sweep through the population, the Covid-19 vaccination is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and your local community this winter.

Dr Michael Marsh, Medical Director at NHS England and NHS Improvement South West, said: “Now the New Year is here, people shouldn’t put off getting their vaccinations any longer.

“As people start to mix again at work and in schools, vaccinations provide our best defence from serious illness or death from Covid-19.

“In particular we need those aged between 18 and 49 to come forward as well as those with underlying health conditions.”

All adults aged 18 and over are now able to receive their Covid-19 booster vaccination by attending a walk in clinic that can be found on the Grab a Jab website or by booking an appointment on the National Booking System website or by calling 119.

As well as Covid-19, the flu continues to circulate in the local population. The NHS offers those in at risk groups, including those aged 50 and over and pregnant women, a free flu vaccination.

Dr Marsh continued: “Understandably a lot of focus is on Covid-19, however, the threat of contracting flu and becoming seriously unwell is very real.  “If you are in one of the at-risk groups it is important you come forward for your free vaccination. You may be contacted by your GP or you can find a local community pharmacy that is offer the vaccine on the NHS website.”

For more information about those who are eligible for a free flu vaccine can be found on the NHS website