Winter boost

Herefordshire’s director of public health is advising residents to boost their immunity against infection by taking up the offer to get vaccinated when it’s offered.

Matt Pearce says there is more pressure on services at Hereford Hospital, where case rates have risen recently, reflecting the national picture. While Herefordshire patients are not getting seriously ill from covid-19, he adds:

“Residents are more prone to viruses during the coldest months of the year. So, while we expect cases to rise in winter, it’s particularly important to get your flu- and covid-19 vaccine, if you are eligible. This will help keep you, as well those you care about, including your friends and family, safer.

“Remember, everyone working in public-facing roles, like health and social care workers, is more likely to be exposed to viruses. Therefore, by getting vaccinated, you also reduce the chances of spreading viruses among those you come into contact with."

You can get a seasonal covid vaccine on the NHS if you are:

• 50 or over
• Pregnant
• 5 or over and at high risk due to a health condition/ have or live with someone with a weakened immune system
• 16 or over and a carer, paid or unpaid
• Living or working in a care home for older people
• A frontline health and social care worker

If you are in one of these groups then you will be contacted by your GP practice when it’s your turn to come forward. A number of community pharmacies also offer the NHS vaccination. Contact your nearest community pharmacy for more information and to book an appointment. For more information about local vaccination arrangements, visit the Taurus Healthcare website.

Flu boosters

If you are eligible, your GP surgery will also contact you when it’s your turn to be vaccinated against flu. The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to adults who:

• Are 65 years old and over (by 31 March 2023)
• Have certain health conditions
• Are pregnant
• Are in long-stay residential care
• Receive a carer’s allowance or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
• Live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system
• Are a frontline health worker or social care worker who cannot get the vaccine through an occupational health scheme
• Have or live with someone who has a weakened immune system

From mid-October, those aged 50 and older (by 31 March 2023) can have a free NHS flu vaccine.

Some people who can get a booster dose of the covid vaccine are also eligible for the annual flu vaccine. If you are offered both, it’s safe to have them at the same time.

Visit the NHS webpage for more information.