High-risk North Yorkshire residents urged to get Covid booster and flu jab
Booking is now open for those aged 50 to 64, in addition to those previously eligible
Last updated 17th Oct 2022
North Yorkshire residents in high-risk groups are being urged to get autumn Covid-19 booster and flu vaccinations as early as possible.
Booking for both the flu vaccine and the Covid-19 autumn booster is now open to those aged 50 to 64, in addition to those previously eligible.
The UK Health Security Agency has warned that the UK could be facing the threat of widely circulating flu, with lower levels of natural immunity due to less exposure over the last three winters.
It says flu levels have remained low over the last two years, with pandemic measures preventing widespread infection. However, southern hemisphere countries such as Australia have experienced a significant increase in cases this year, with flu also circulating earlier than usual in their winter season.
In addition to the predicted flu wave, Covid-19 rates are also rising across the UK. The latest estimates suggest around one in 50 people across England, or two per cent of the population, had Covid-19 in late September.
Study results from early in the pandemic show individuals who catch both flu and Covid-19 at the same time, known as co-infection, are around twice as likely to die compared to those who only have Covid-19.
For all those who are eligible, taking up both the Covid-19 booster and the flu jab is an essential form of protection against the most severe respiratory viruses in circulation this winter.
It says vaccines are the best way to get protected against serious illness and hospitalisation from flu and Covid-19, and will also help reduce pressure on the healthcare system.
Last year there was lower uptake among people in clinical risk groups and pregnant women so these groups are particularly urged to come forward this year, as well as younger children who are eligible for the nasal spray vaccine as they are unlikely to have built up any natural immunity to flu.
Flu and Covid-19 can spread more easily in winter as people mix indoors.
North Yorkshire County Council’s Director of Public Health, Louise Wallace, said: “As well as taking up the vaccines, everyone is encouraged to help stop the spread of respiratory viruses this winter by wearing masks in crowded or enclosed public spaces.
“It is also important to make sure indoor spaces are well ventilated, covering your nose and mouth if you cough or sneeze, and staying at home and avoiding contact with other people if you are feeling unwell.”
Different rules apply to each vaccine:
The Covid-19 autumn booster is available for those aged 50 years or over, those at higher risk with certain health conditions or who are pregnant, and frontline health and social care workers (including unpaid carers). To get an autumn booster dose:
• book a Covid-19 vaccination appointment online for an appointment at a vaccination centre or pharmacy, or call 119 if unable to book online
• find a walk-in Covid-19 vaccination site to get vaccinated without needing an appointment
The flu vaccine is available for those aged 50 years or over, people with certain health conditions or who are pregnant, people in long-stay residential care, carers and people who live with someone with a weakened immune system. Those eligible can access the vaccine through their GP or a community pharmacy.
Front line health and social care workers should also be offered a flu vaccine through their employers. For more information visit the NHS website |newtab).