Covid booster and flu jabs ready for over 50's in Wiltshire
Call for adults to get both vaccinations free on the NHS
Adults over the age of 50 in Wiltshire and Swindon can give themselves the best possible chance of staying fit and healthy this winter by arranging to have a Covid-19 autumn booster and the flu jab, according to the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board.
They say both vaccines are free on the NHS for people over the age of 50. The flu jab is free for anyone turning 50 before the end of March.
Covid-19 vaccines continue to be available from the well-established sites, such as Salisbury City Hall, that have been involved in the vaccination programme since its inception almost two years ago.
Salisbury City Hall will keep operating as a vaccination hub until at least March 2023.
Covid vaccination appointments can be booked online here www.nhs.uk or by calling 119.
Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said:
"Winter is fast approaching and with cases of Covid-19 already on the rise, it’s hugely important that all those who are eligible for a vaccine come forward without delay.
“The Covid-19 vaccine itself is a safe, tried-and-tested method for staying on top of coronavirus, and the process for booking a vaccination appointment could not be more straightforward, with most people living only minutes from their nearest vaccine centre.
“What’s more, some people will also be able to have a flu vaccine at the same time as their autumn booster, which is a real bonus, as flu and other respiratory viruses circulate more during the winter months.
“And with this year being the first since 2019 with no mandated rules on mask wearing or social distancing, getting vaccinated against both Covid-19 and flu should be a priority for all who are eligible.”
People over the age of 50 can secure a flu vaccination through their GP practice or by visiting a participating community pharmacy. Those not eligible for a free vaccine have the option of arranging their vaccination privately, either through a high street chemist or a supermarket with an in-store pharmacy.
More information on the local rollout of the Covid-19 vaccine, including an up-to-date list of frequently asked questions, can be found here www.bsw.icb.nhs.uk