The booking for both the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 autumn booster is now open to those who are eligible.

Getting your flu and COVID-19 vaccines are two of the most important things you can do to protect yourself against serious illness. Since the first COVID-19 vaccine was given in Coventry, it has saved lives and helped many thousands of people stay out of hospital. Data shows that immunity provided by COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time, so it’s important for those eligible to ‘top up’ with the COVID-19 autumn booster.

The flu virus can change every year and can cause serious illness or even lead to hospitalisation for those most at risk.   The flu vaccine is the best protection against getting seriously ill from flu and it is important to get vaccinated as soon as you are able. 

The eligible groups for this year’s Autumn booster vaccines include:-

• Everyone aged 50 years old and over
• People with long term health conditions
• Frontline health and social care staff
• Pregnant women
• Young children aged 2-3 years old (Flu only)
• Primary school aged and some secondary school aged children (Flu only)

You can get your flu jab from your GP or from pharmacies across Coventry and Warwickshire who also offer the vaccines.

People can book their seasonal COVID-19 vaccine using the National Booking Service or by calling 119, or can find a local vaccination walk-in site. Your COVID-19 booster can only be administered at least three months after your previous dose.  Many of these sites are still offering first and second dose COVID-19 vaccinations if needed for those who are previously unvaccinated.   

Cllr Caan, Cabinet member for Public Health and Sport at Coventry City Council said:

“This winter, both flu and COVID-19 will be circulating, and it is important to get your vaccinations as soon as you are able to.”

“As we approach what could be an extremely challenging winter for the NHS, it is vital not to delay booking your appointment and to get your winter vaccinations as soon as you are invited. Vaccines still remain the best protection against circulating viruses, so acting responsibly to boost your immunity can help to avoid serious illness and possible hospitalisation as well as protecting your loved ones.”

You can find out more about what vaccinations you may need, and information about how to book an appointment, by visiting www.nhs.uk/flujab and www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccine.