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Home >> news >> “Don’t let COVID or flu spoil your holiday season,” NHS urges residents as Christmas approaches
Vaccinations generally take around two weeks to start working, but thousands of people in the local area have still not made arrangements to receive their immunisations in advance of the Christmas holiday season.
The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to adults who:
Most eligible people will be offered a vaccination appointment or drop-in by their general practice, but you can also go to any pharmacy or other location which is offering jabs this winter.
There are over 65 locations in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes offering COVID-19 vaccinations to anyone who is eligible. As with the flu campaign, you don’t need to wait to be invited before coming forward.
The COVID-19 vaccine is available to adults who:
The flu vaccine is also available to children, most of whom will receive a visit from an NHS vaccination team at their school. If your child was aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2023, or aged over 6 months to 2 years and in clinical risk groups, s/he is also eligible and you should contact your GP surgery to find out how to get a vaccination.
Some children are also eligible because of a health condition, or because they live with someone who is at increased risk of serious illness.
Dr Sarah Whiteman, chief medical director at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:
“Remember that it takes a couple of weeks for vaccines to work, so you do need to come forward very soon to get the protection you might want before spending the festive season with family and friends.
“We are seeing a double threat from flu and COVID-19, so it’s crucial that you take up your free vaccinations as soon as possible.
“In particular, there is a close relationship between getting older and increased risk from severe respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and flu, so I cannot stress enough how important it is to take up your vaccination entitlement. They could well save your life.
“Having your jabs is the best way to protect yourself and those closest to you, and there’s still time for eligible people to get them: just speak to your pharmacist or your general practice for more details.
“You can also find the latest information about both vaccines and how to book by visiting www.nhs.uk/seasonalvaccinations.”
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