Get your jab to protect yourself and others this winter

In line with expert advice, the NHS is offering free Covid 19 and flu vaccines to all those at highest risk from severe illness, with people eligible being urged to book their appointments as soon as possible.

Those who can get both vaccines include everyone aged 65 and over, residents in care homes for older people, pregnant women, people with certain health conditions, frontline health and social care staff, unpaid carers and those who live in the same household as people who have weakened immune systems.

Gerry Taylor, Sunderland's Director of Public Health, said: "The risks from Covid-19 and flu are still very real. While unpleasant for some, for others who are more at risk of getting seriously ill, such as those with certain health conditions, older people and pregnant women, they can be dangerous.

"Sadly, we still see deaths from flu each winter and people can still get very ill or die from Covid-19. Catching both viruses over winter can increase the risk even more.

"Flu and COVID-19 spread more easily in winter as we spend more time indoors. Getting these vaccines ahead of winter are two of the most important things you can do to keep yourself and others around you safe

"Getting your vaccines, if eligible, is really important to top up your protection. Even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, it's worth getting any jabs you're eligible for as soon as you can to give yourself the best possible protection ahead of winter."

If you think you've already had flu or COVID-19, you should still get the vaccines as they will continue to help protect you from future infection.

If you have recently had Covid-19 you can still have your vaccine, as soon as you are well.  There is no need to delay getting your jab.  If you are unwell on the day of your vaccination or think you could be infectious to others do not attend, please change your appointment to another day.

A free nasal flu vaccine is also offered to children aged 2 to 16 years of age, and to children who are 17 with certain long-term health conditions.

Children aged 6 months to 2 years with certain long-term health conditions will be offered the flu vaccine injection.

Children should get the flu vaccine as soon as they can, to protect themselves and help stop the virus spreading to others. Getting vaccinated reduces a child's chance of needing hospital care for flu by around two thirds.

Most people will receive their vaccines at their GP practice or a local pharmacy.  Children aged 2-3 years old or those aged 6 months to 17 years with certain long-term health conditions will be able to get the flu vaccine at their GP practice.  School-aged children will get their flu vaccine mainly at school, or at a community venue.

Pregnant women are able to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccines from their GP or maternity service. If you are pregnant you can have your vaccines at any stage of your pregnancy to help protect yourself and your baby.

If eligible, you can book a flu vaccine by contacting your GP practice or making an appointment online for a local pharmacy at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/book-flu-vaccination/ or in the NHS App. 

Those eligible can book their seasonal COVID-19 vaccinations through the NHS App or at  http://www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination. You don't need to have had all of your previous Covid-19 jabs to get your seasonal booster.  For anyone unable to get online to book, the free 119 number can make bookings for you at the same sites.

Find out more information about both vaccines and how to book by visiting www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations .