With Christmas fast approaching, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is reminding people to get their winter vaccinations. The online booking system, NHS App and 119 phone service will all close for flu and COVID-19 vaccine bookings from 15 December, so 14 December will be the last day to make a booking. After 15 December and up until 31 January 2024, it will still be possible to get winter vaccinations via walk-in sites or by booking through local NHS vaccination services like pharmacies. However, there will be fewer Covid vaccine appointments and people may need to travel further.
The Cheshire and Merseyside area still has plenty of appointments available each week at various sites, offering additional protection to those eligible who have not yet come forward. Walk-in availability for community pharmacies is updated on a daily basis at the NHS walk-in finder, while opening times for all other clinics, including the Living Well Bus, can be found at www.cheshireandmerseyside.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.
As of 1 December, over 530,000 COVID-19 and 700,000 flu vaccinations have been given in Cheshire and Merseyside since the autumn campaign commenced on 11 September. More than 366,000 people aged 65 and over in the area have had their COVID-19 vaccination, but there are still thousands of people who can safeguard their health this winter.
Vaccination is the best way to protect oneself and their family against flu and COVID-19 when the viruses spread more easily as people spend more time indoors during the festive season. It takes roughly two weeks after vaccination to build up the strongest defences against these viruses, so it is vital to book in advance. It is imperative to obtain this protection even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or Covid before, as immunity decreases over time and the viruses change annually.
“Don’t delay – book your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations now,” stated Dr Fiona Lemmens, Associate Medical Director, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside. “With just two weeks until online bookings close, we’re urging those who haven’t yet come forward to do so. Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect yourself, family and friends during the festive period when family and friends come together to celebrate. Book your appointment now to stay protected.”
Jayne Wood, Director of Vaccine and Testing Operations, NHS Cheshire and Merseyside added that they have seen record numbers of people choosing to have their flu and Covid vaccines at the same time this year, making it even easier for people. It is crucial to get these vaccines to safeguard one’s health, especially with Christmas being here and people expecting to celebrate with family and friends. The 119 service, which provides booking support for those who cannot access online services, will close for appointments on 15 December but will continue to answer queries until the 22nd. Over four million Covid vaccination appointments have been booked on the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119 nationally, and now is the best time to use these platforms, which are the most straightforward way to book until the online bookings reopen next year
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