Millions of children and adults across the North West will be offered vaccinations against Covid-19, flu, and RSV this winter. The NHS has set out its plans to protect the population ahead of the cold months. The vaccines are said to provide crucial protection against serious illnesses and hospitalisation during the busy winter months.
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) has recommended that this year, based on the latest scientific evidence, adults aged 65 and over, residents of care homes for older adults, and those with underlying health conditions aged six months to 64 years will be eligible for flu and Covid vaccinations. Frontline health and social care staff will also be offered the Covid and flu vaccines, as will staff in care homes for older adults. From September, the NHS will offer vaccines for Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) for the first time.
This virus is a common cause of coughs and colds and can be dangerous to older people and young children. The RSV jab will be available to those aged 75 to 79 and will be offered to pregnant women from 28 weeks to protect their children. Flu vaccinations for children will begin in September to curb the spread of the virus.
From October 3, flu and Covid vaccinations will be available for other eligible groups. People can start booking these vaccinations from September 23. Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening, said: "The flu and Covid-19 vaccines are our best defences ag.