Urgent call for Covid booster jabs

Local health leaders have made an urgent call for eligible people to book their Covid-19 autumn booster.

Those who qualify for the jab are being urged to book their appointment now.

That is the message coming from the region’s health leaders as the latest
appointment data shows a worrying decline in the number of people actively
arranging their Covid-19 vaccinations.

As it stands, vaccine uptake among people aged 65 and over is generally quite
good but considerably less so for those in the 50 to 64-years-old age group.

There have also been fewer people who are considered at-risk, such as those with weakened immune systems, coming forward in this latest phase than at previous points in the vaccination journey.

The Covid-19 autumn booster is intended to provide people who are more
susceptible to falling seriously ill with coronavirus an added layer of protection during the winter months.

Getting boosted also helps stop the virus from being passed from person to person, preventing the spread of future infections.

Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire
Integrated Care Board said: “With winter just around the corner, and with the
prospect of a flu and Covid-19 double-whammy a very real possibility, it is extremely concerning that fewer people are coming forward to get vaccinated.

“Both of these viruses have the potential to cause very serious problems to even the healthiest of people, but especially those in our communities who are older or vulnerable.

“I know that many think Covid-19 has gone away and that catching it is similar to having a cold, but that just isn’t the case, and we need to act now to ensure that those who could see themselves end up in hospital if they get this terrible virus are protected.

“Booking a coronavirus vaccination is easy and straightforward, and the vaccine
itself is a safe and proven way of keeping yourself, and those around you protected from the brutal toll that Covid-19 can take.”

All people currently eligible for a Covid-19 autumn booster also qualify for a free
NHS flu jab, with some able to receive both vaccines at the same time.

Vaccinations for Covid-19 continue at Salisbury City Hall, while NHS flu jabs can be obtained from GP practices and most community pharmacies.

People who do not automatically qualify for a free flu jab can arrange to have their vaccine privately by booking the service at a high-street chemist or supermarket with an in-store pharmacy.
Having both vaccines will ensure people have the best possible chance of getting through the winter months, when the transmission of respiratory illnesses traditionally peak, without falling seriously ill.

More information about the local rollout of the Covid-19 vaccination, including an extensive list of frequently asked questions, can be found online at www.bsw.icb.nhs.uk.