“Last chance” call over COVID-19 vaccinations

Thousands of eligible people in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes who have not yet come forward for COVID-19 vaccinations have been reminded that they have only a few days left to get their jab before the offer ends on 31 January 2024.

You or your child may be offered a seasonal COVID-19 vaccine if you are:

• aged 65 years old or over (you need to be 65 years old by 31 March 2024);
• aged 6 months to 64 years old and are at increased risk;
• living in a care home for older adults;
• a frontline health or social care worker;
• aged 16 to 64 years old and are a carer;
• aged 12 to 64 years old and live with someone with a weakened immune system.

More than 169,000 vaccinations had been given in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes by 17 December 2023 (the last week for which figures are currently available), as part of the current offer.

Dr Sanhita Chakrabarti, deputy chief medical director at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board, said:

“We know that there are still thousands of people out there who are eligible for a seasonal vaccination, but who have not yet come forward.

“Our advice remains the same: getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against serious illness.  COVID-19 hasn’t gone away but your protection from previous vaccinations wanes over time, so it’s important to get your jab if you are eligible.

“There are lots of reasons why you may not yet have had your seasonal COVID-19 vaccination.  Perhaps you were unwell and unable to get your jab at the start of the winter, or maybe you originally said no but have changed your mind.  Whatever the reason, it’s still not too late, but the seasonal offer will close on 31 January so if that’s you, make sure you don’t miss out.”

You can double-check your eligibility online, and get your vaccination at many local pharmacies.

Flu vaccinations will be available for a while longer this winter, but eligible people who have not yet received one are advised to do so as soon as possible.