NHS organisations across Norfolk and Waveney are reminding everyone who is eligible for their COVID-19 Autumn booster and their flu jab to come forward and get vaccinated.

The NHS COVID-19 vaccination programme has vaccinated more than two thirds (67%) of those with a weakened immune system with a booster already.

Hundreds of thousands of people who are at risk and more likely to become seriously ill are yet to come forward for a vital top-up and may not be aware they have a condition that makes them eligible.

People are able to get the booster because they are considered at risk by the JCVI. This includes pregnant people and those who have a learning disability or severe mental illness, or another condition that makes them eligible, such as blood cancer, diabetes, epilepsy and asthma, among other chronic conditions outlined in the Green Book.

Anyone who would prefer a booked appointment can continue to book via the National Booking Service (NBS) or by ringing 119 free of charge (as long as it has been three months since their last dose).

Those who prefer to just walk-in for their COVID-19 Booster locally can find their closest site here: https://apps.norfolk.gov.uk/WalkIn/Form/Index

Kate Keeling, Associate Director of Immunisation & Health Inclusion, NHS Norfolk and Waveney said:

“There is still time to get your COVID-19 Autumn Booster and flu jab before Christmas. It is vitally important that when you are invited, you come forward and get protected. Not only does it protect you but those around you too.

“We have made it so easy to get vaccinated – visit one of our sites either through the National Booking System or just visit a walk-in site.

“If you are a parent or carer, please ensure that your child is protected and has their flu spray/jab.  This will help protect not only them but also those around them, particularly older grandparents, or relations with an underlying health condition.”

Accessible clinics – COVID-19 Booster        

We know that our busy clinics are not suitable for everyone, and we are inviting those who require our accessible clinics which take place at James Paget University Hospital and can be booked by calling 01493 453 930.

Flu

Flu vaccination is safe and effective. It’s offered every year through the NHS to help protect people at risk of getting seriously ill from flu.

Flu vaccination is important because, while flu is unpleasant for most people, it can be dangerous and even life threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions.

When you are invited to do so, please get vaccinated and protect you and those around you this winter.

Preventing the spread of flu

You can help stop yourself catching flu or spreading it to others with good hygiene measures. The young children that you care for should also be encouraged to do the same:

• wash hands regularly with soap and warm water
• use tissues to cover the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• put used tissues in a bin as soon as possible

Visit www.nhs.uk/child-fu for more information. Talk to your GP, practice nurse, your child’s school nurse or your health visitor if you have any further questions.

ENDS

NOTES

• If you are not housebound but eligible for your vaccination to book your COVID-19 booster visit: Book or manage a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination – NHS (www.nhs.uk) 
• Alternatively, call 119.
• To attend an accessible clinic call 01493 453 930
• Information on evening openings is available here: https://apps.norfolk.gov.uk/WalkIn/Form/AllAvailableClinics
• To access flu vaccine visit your GP surgery
• Pharmacies are offering the flu vaccination service – if you’re aged 18 or over
• some maternity services if you’re pregnant