More than 300,000 in Sussex still yet to get Covid booster jab
Health bosses are asking people to get protected ahead of Christmas
Around 330,000 people eligible for a Covid-19 booster jab in Sussex have still not received it, according to NHS bosses in the county.
The vaccination is being given to those deemed to be at heightened risk of the jab, including all those aged 50 and above.
NHS Sussex has revealed that 519,000 people across the county have come forward to be vaccinated, including many who are also eligible to receive a free flu jab.
With COVID-19, flu and other respiratory illnesses in circulation and infection rates on the rise, health and care leaders are urging people to get their jabs now to ensure maximum protection throughout the festive and New Year period.
A spokesperson for the Sussex COVID-19 vaccination programme said:
“Our teams have been working extremely hard since the beginning of September to protect those most susceptible to serious illness from COVID-19 and flu.
“We know that with winter comes both increased infection levels and also people coming together to celebrate the festive period with their loved ones – and so it is vital that those who are due their booster or flu jab, come forward as soon as possible to ensure they have that protection for themselves and their loved ones this winter.
“Latest figures show that there are many people across our communities who should have an autumn booster or a flu vaccine and haven’t yet come forward. If you are eligible, we strongly urge you to join the millions who have already had theirs”.
Those who are eligible to receive the COVID-19 vaccine include those aged 50 and over, frontline health and social care workers, and those deemed at risk because, for example, they have either a weakened immune system, a learning disability or are pregnant.
People in these groups are also eligible for a free flu vaccination ahead of winter.
People can book an appointment on the National Booking Service – or by calling 119 – or by following an invitation from a local team.