September has arrived, summer holidays have ended, and temperatures are slowly dropping - following an unusually hot spell. MPs are back from recess and schools have returned for a new year.
As autumn rapidly approaches, the NHS is preparing to roll out its flu and Covid vaccination programme for certain eligible groups including those at most risk and those classified as household contacts of people with weakened immune systems.
The adult Covid and flu vaccination programme has been brought forward on the basis of the latest advice following the emergence of a new Covid-19 variant and will prioritise those with the greatest risk. Other eligible groups will then be invited to receive their 'top up' protection ahead of the winter months. With respiratory illnesses set to make a rebound this winter, it's important that eligible groups come forward to receive their vaccinations. Details of eligibility can be found on the GOV.UK website.
Vaccines continue to provide the best protection against serious illness and hospitalisation from Covid-19, so please make sure you get vaccinated when you receive your invitation and also encourage others to do the same. There are a multitude of ways to book your Covid-19 vaccination including online via the NHS website, on the NHS app, by telephone on 119 or, alternatively, via your GP surgery.
The annual NHS vaccination programme for children aged 2-3, school age children and children over 6 months with certain health conditions is also getting underway, with parents receiving invites from this week. With children recently returning to school, it’s essential that they are vaccinated against flu as quickly as possible to protect themselves as well as their loved ones. The fast and easy nasal spray has a proven record of protecting children who need it most, with the NHS offering it to the majority of children from this year. When you receive the electronic or paper consent form from the NHS School Immunisation Team, please make sure you return it without delay.
As we look ahead to the Autumn whether at school or in work, we must all take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from Covid-19.
As always, if you require my help with anything at all, please do not hesitate to contact me via e-mail at [email protected] or by telephone on 01543 877142.
