Milestone reaches as NHS services deliver the 100,000TH COVID-19 Autumn booster to local people

The NHS autumn booster campaign in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes has got off to a brisk start, with the 100,000th vaccine already having been delivered this week, less than a month after the programme began.  Thousands more patients are already booked in for their vaccinations in the weeks ahead.

Craig Lister, COVID and flu immunisation and vaccination strategy lead at Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Health and Care Partnership, said:

“With forecasts of a double risk from COVID-19 and flu this winter, we are pleased to see so many people coming forward for their jabs in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes.

“Our advice hasn’t changed – if you’re eligible, getting vaccinated is still the best way to maximise your protection against COVID and serious illness, hospitalisation or even death.  Case numbers are already starting to rise again this autumn and, with the winter ahead, it is important to get vaccinated as soon as you can.

“We want to ensure that everyone gets the protection they need as quickly and conveniently as soon as they are eligible for a COVID-19 or flu vaccine.”

In Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes, vaccination sites include GP practices, community pharmacies and large vaccination centres – as well as outreach sessions in towns and villages across the area.

People in the following eligible groups can now book via the National Booking Service:

• aged 50 or over;
• pregnant;
• aged 5 and over and at high risk due to a health condition;
• aged 5 and over and at high risk because of a weakened immune system;
• aged 16 and over and lives with someone who has a weakened immune system;
• aged 16 and over and is a carer, either paid or unpaid;
• a frontline health and social care worker.

As in previous campaigns, people will be advised when it is their turn to be able to book; we will communicate the latest information using our website, social media, through GP practices and other community channels.