The NHS has begun the rollout of Covid and flu vaccines. This is part of a plan to combat a potential 'tripledemic' of viruses this winter . The vaccines are aimed at older adults, care home residents, and people with long-term health conditions.
Across the North West, more than 2.8 million people are eligible to receive the Covid-19 vaccine, and 4.2 million can get the flu vaccination.
Eligible individuals have been able to book appointments since Monday, September 23. With slots still available, the NHS encourages eligible individuals to book through the NHS website, the NHS App, or by calling 119. The flu vaccine can also be booked by searching online for a local pharmacy.
Walk-in sites are available for the Covid-19 vaccine. The NHS has already invited more than 11 million people across the country to come forward for their jabs. However, those eligible do not have to wait for an invitation to book their appointments.
Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning for NHS England – North West, said: "The winter vaccination programme offers vital protection to people who need it most. "It saves lives, but also it helps the NHS by reducing hospital admissions and easing pressure on services that are already incredibly busy. "People with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, young infants, and older people are among those eligible for some or all of these life-saving vaccines.
"If invited, please don’t delay – get the vaccines. "And if you’.