THE NHS has announced that there is less than two weeks left until winter vaccinations close in the South East.
The national systems for booking flu and coronavirus vaccinations is set to close for bookings on Friday, December 15.
This means that Thursday, December 14, is the last day that those who are eligible can make book appointments.
While vaccinations will still be available through local services, however there will be fewer appointments and patients may have to travel further for them.
COVID-19 vaccines close completely on January 31, after which residents will have to wait for a future seasonal campaign unless they develop a new health condition, or undergo treatment which weakens the immune system.
The flu vaccine offer closes on March 31, through the NHS advises getting the vaccine as soon as possible.
The NHS says that the vaccinations should be given to those who are aged 65 or over (as of March 31 next year”, are pregnant, or have underlying health conditions or learning disability.
It is also recommended for those living in care home or with others who have weakened immune systems, and frontline care, health, and social workers.
School-aged children (reception to Year 11), including those aged 2-3, are advised to get the children’s flu vaccine, especially if they have health conditions.
While more than 4.7 million covid and flu vaccines have been administered since September, there are still hundreds of thousands of appointments available each week in the south east.
Caroline Reid, NHS Trust administrator, said: “It’s great news that millions of people have now been vaccinated against COVID-19 and flu in the South East.
“However, there is still time for others who are eligible to come forward so please do take advantage of booking online between now and the 14 December.”
More information about winter jabs is available via: nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/
COVID-19 vaccinations can be booked in person at drop-in centres, or online via: nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services.
More information about flu jabs, including how to book them, is available via: nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations.
Information is also available by calling 111.
