PREGNANT women, young children and those with chronic health conditions are being urged to get the flu vaccine and protect themselves this winter.
The vaccination programmes started on September 1, when flu vaccines became available for young children (aged 2 and 3), pregnant women, school-aged children.
From October 1, the Covid-19 and flu vaccination programme will extend to adults aged 65 and over, people in clinical risk groups, carers, frontline health and social care staff, and those living in care homes.
Health leaders are working to increase uptake following a national decline in vaccination rates.
Both NHS Birmingham and Solihull and NHS Black Country are working closely with GPs, community pharmacies, schools, local authorities, and voluntary organisations to make vaccinations as accessible as possible.
Where possible, people will be offered both vaccines at the same time for convenience and maximum protection ahead of winter.
Helen Kelly, chief nurse for NHS Birmingham and Solihull, said: “Vaccines are still the best protection against flu, Covid-19 and other seasonal illnesses.
“We know fewer people have been getting vaccinated in recent years, but this makes it even more important to take up the offer this autumn if you are eligible.
“By getting vaccinated in September or October, you’ll be helping to protect yourself and those around you through the winter months.”
Alongside flu and COVID, eligible patients can also get their Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccination at their local GP practice or at participating pharmacies, across Birmingham and the Black Country.
This immunisation is available for those aged 75 to 79 or pregnant women over 28 weeks.
Pneumococcal vaccines are also available for anyone aged 65 and over via GP practices.
Those eligible for COVID and flu immunisations are able to book an appointment via the National Booking System.
Appointments are also be available on the NHS App or by calling 119.
Calls to 119 are free from mobiles and landlines and the booking service provides support in 200 different languages.
Those who have difficulties communicating or hearing, or are a BSL user can use textphone 18001 or the NHS 119 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter service.
