EVESHAM’S MP Nigel Huddleston has urged all eligible constituents to take advantage of the NHS winter vaccine programme.
In light of the latest expert advice and the emergence of a new Covid variant, BA.2.86, the NHS has brought forward its Covid and flu vaccination programme.
The programme, which starts with the vaccination of residents in older adult care homes and housebound individuals, aims to prioritise those most vulnerable to Covid-19 and flu.
Other eligible groups are now invited to receive their vaccines.
“I encourage every eligible constituent to get their jabs as soon as they can,” Mr Huddleston said.
“Vaccinations allow us to protect our loved ones and the vulnerable members of our community.”
Emphasising the urgency, Steve Russell, NHS Director of Vaccinations and Screening, said: “With concerns arising over new Covid variants, it’s vital we adapt the programme and bring it forward for those most at risk, and so I strongly urge everyone eligible to come forward as soon as they can for this important protection in colder months.”
Reinforcing the importance of the vaccination, Dr Mary Ramsay, Head of Immunisation at the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), said: “Older people and those in clinical risk groups remain at highest risk of serious illness from Covid-19.
“The vaccine continues to provide the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation from Covid-19, so please make sure you get vaccinated when offered and encourage loved ones who are eligible to do the same.”
Last year, the NHS administered more than 21 million flu vaccinations and more than 17 million Covid-19 jabs, demonstrating the success of previous vaccination campaigns. Earlier this year, NHS England reported more than 86 million Covid vaccination appointments were scheduled using the NHS’s national online booking system since its launch two years ago.
Visit the NHS website, the NHS App, or call 119 for more.
