With only two weeks to go to book flu and Covid vaccines online, the NHS is encouraging those who are eligible, to go online or on the NHS App and book an appointment by 14 December 2023.

Getting vaccinated against flu and Covid-19 before 15 December will help increase people’s protection ahead of the winter holidays as it can take up to two weeks to build up maximum defences against the viruses.

Roz Lindridge, the NHS England director responsible for overseeing the vaccination programme across the Midlands said:

“As we all set to gather with friends and family over the festive and new year period, it’s best to get vaccinated now to make sure you are protected from getting sick. More so as it gets colder with viruses spreading more easily and as we spend more time indoors in close contact.

“The national booking system and the NHS app are the most convenient way to book both vaccines. In a matter of minutes, it allows you to book your vaccines online at a location close to you.

“Our NHS staff are doing an incredible job in the vaccination programme to ensure that as many eligible people as possible receive vital protection quickly and conveniently.

“The uptake numbers are very encouraging, and we want to continue ensuring even more people book appointments online whilst they still can.

“Even if you have previously had a vaccination or been ill with flu or Covid-19 before, immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year, so it is important you top up your protection.”

After 14 December, those eligible may be able to book a Covid-19 vaccination directly with a pharmacy, or visit a walk-in site, but there will be fewer appointments and you may have to travel further. Those eligible for a free flu vaccine can still contact their GP surgery or visit a pharmacy offering the service (If 18 or over).

The lifesaving NHS winter vaccination programme in the Midlands has delivered more than 2,900,000 flu jabs and over two million Covid vaccines to people most at risk since it began.

People eligible for both winter vaccines include all aged 65 and over, those that are pregnant, those aged 6 months and above with certain health conditions, care home residents, frontline health and social care staff, unpaid carers and household contacts of people with a weakened immune system.

The autumn vaccination campaign is among a package of NHS measures to prepare for winter with the health service already facing immense pressure from ongoing industrial action, demand on emergency services, and common winter viruses.

If you are eligible, you can book your flu and seasonal Covid-19 vaccination online at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations or via the NHS App by 14 December 2023. You will not be able to book a vaccination online after this date.

Details of walk in sites for the Covid-19 vaccine can be found at Find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site – NHS (www.nhs.uk).

For those aged 18 and over, you can find a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination here.