Plea to get Covid jab as pressure on NHS in Lancashire grows
244 hospital beds are occupied by confirmed Covid-19 patients
NHS services across Lancashire are treating more Covid-19 patients, prompting a fresh plea for those eligible to get an autumn booster.
244 hospital beds are being used by confirmed Covid-19 patients this week.
239 of those patients are occupying acute medical beds, with five in critical care.
Over 50s are now able to get another jab, along with:
- Residents of care homes for older adults.
- Frontline health and social care workers.
- People aged 5-49 in a clinical risk group (including pregnant women) or who are household contacts of people with a weakened immune system.
- People aged 16-49 who are carers.
More than 320,000 people across Lancashire and South Cumbria have had their autumn booster in the last month or so, with most delivered to people over the age of 65 and those most at risk from Covid-19.
Vaccine sites include St John's Shopping Centre in Preston and The Charter Walk Shopping Centre in Burnley.
Jane Scattergood, Senior Responsible Officer, Lancashire and South Cumbria Vaccination programme, said:
"Viruses, with flu and Covid-19, spread much more easily in winter when we socialise indoors, so it's important that everyone eligible tops up their protection ahead of the festive period.
"This year it is easier than ever for all over 50s across Lancashire and South Cumbria to book their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations through the national booking service."
The government has launched a new campaign this week to urge more people to come forward for their Covid-19 AND flu jabs - amid fears of a 'twindemic' this winter.
Dr Sakthi Karunithi, Director of Public Health for Lancashire County Council, said:
"While vaccines remain our best defence against Covid-19, it's not the only thing we can do. If you feel unwell and have flu-like or Covid-19 symptoms and a high temperature, avoid close contact with others and stay at home if you can.
"Try to let in fresh air when you meet others indoors, wash your hands regularly and wear a face mask in crowded and enclosed places, where possible. It's important that we continue to take these simple precautions to protect ourselves and our loved ones."