Milton Keynes City Council is encouraging eligible residents to get their free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations this winter.
This year, only 26% of the city’s most vulnerable residents have been vaccinated against flu, compared to 34% vaccinated by this point last year. Similarly, fewer than half of eligible residents have come forward for COVID-19 vaccinations.
Flu and COVID-19 can be unpleasant, but most people will recover without hospital treatment. However, people aged over 65, pregnant women, young children and those with existing medical conditions have a higher risk of getting seriously ill.
Getting the flu and COVID-19 vaccines are two of the most important things eligible people can do to protect themselves from serious illness this winter. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to your GP or a health professional.
“If you are contacted directly by the NHS, please get vaccinated. The best time to get your vaccine is now, before flu and covid viruses start circulating more widely. The vaccines are safe and will reduce your risk of getting sick or spreading potentially serious infections to others.”
“These vaccines are effective, and they can protect you and your loved ones over winter. I would urge anyone who is thinking about it to go ahead. If you’re not eligible for a free flu vaccine, and can afford to do so, please consider booking a paid vaccination at a pharmacy.”
The NHS is offering free flu and COVID-19 vaccines to those at greatest risk of serious illness this winter, including if you’re:
- aged 65 and over (or any age between 6 months and 64 years if you have an underlying health condition)
- living or working in a care home
- a frontline health or care worker
- pregnant
- living with someone with certain health conditions
- an unpaid carer
Flu vaccination appointments are available at GP practices, selected pharmacies and midwifery services also offer the flu jab to pregnant women. You don’t have to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment which you can do online: www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/book-flu-vaccination
Primary, lower, middle and secondary school children will receive their vaccination at school.
Booking is straightforward and appointments can take less than 10 minutes.
You can book a COVID-19 vaccination online: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination (You may be offered a flu vaccination at the same time.)
Find out more about vaccines and how to stay well this winter by visiting www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/keep-warm-keep-well/