Time running out to book winter vaccinations

With less than three weeks before both the National Booking Service (NBS) appointments close in mid- December – NHS Greater Manchester (GM) is urging all eligible people who haven’t already had their COVID-19 booster vaccine to come forward now to protect themselves and vulnerable people during the festive period.

Autumn and Winter is already associated with a rise in colds, flu and COVID-19, but it’s even more important that people who are at greater risk from COVID get their booster before the festive season – with parties and celebrating Christmas and New Year with family and friends making it easier for viruses to spread.

More than 340,000 booster vaccines have been delivered in Greater Manchester to people who are most at risk of becoming seriously ill with the virus since the latest phase of the COVID-19 vaccination programme started in October, but many more people still need to come forward.

Those eligible only have until Thursday 19^th December to book their COVID-19 vaccination appointment, and until Friday 20^th December to actually have their appointment before the NBS closes.

Dr Helen Wall, Clinical Director for Population Health at NHS Greater Manchester Integrated Care said: “While it’s really positive that more than 340,000 people who are eligible for the winter COVID-19 booster have already come forward for the extra protection, we still need more than half of those eligible to be vaccinated. I would urge anyone who is eligible and has yet to get the top up of protection, to book one of the thousands of appointments we have available and get protected in time for Christmas.

“We want everyone to be able to enjoy the festive period and all the fun that comes along with it, without the risk of becoming seriously ill, which is why the vaccines are so important. They continue to provide the best protection against complications and hospitalisation from COVID-19 as well as flu, so please make sure you get vaccinated when offered and encourage loved ones who are eligible to do the same.

“For the remaining time, booking an appointment is easier than ever, as well as the National Booking Service and calling 119, you can book on the NHS App.”

The winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme provides vital protection to those eligible and their families over winter – keeping people from developing serious illnesses, and helping to minimise hospitalisations during busy winter months.

Wherever possible, vaccinations for flu and COVID-19 will be offered at the same time – making it easier and more convenient for people to get vital protection from both viruses ahead of winter. They will also be offered separately if preferred.

It is important that those eligible this year come forward for their vaccinations as protection fads over time, and the virus that causes flu and COVID can change from year to year.

There is no change to flu vaccinations for school aged children which are offered in schools, to prevent children from getting seriously ill from flu and ending up hospital, and to break the chain of transmission of the virus to the wider population. If school aged children miss the vaccination at school parents can contact IntraHealth for a follow-up appointment on 0333 3583 397.

2-3 year olds and children with an at-risk condition can be vaccinated by their registered general practice.

Most children will have the nasal flu vaccine, but for those who are unable to have it because of religious, dietary or medical reasons then the flu injection is also available. If the injection is needed instead of the nasal vaccine, you will need to make sure you give your GP or school vaccinators enough advance notice to ensure they have it in stock.

Health and social care workers are also eligible for the flu vaccine and encouraged to come forward as soon as they can to ensure they are protected when at work.