1 week Ago
More than 450,000 flu, Covid-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines have been delivered in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon , and Wiltshire so far this autumn. In October, the NHS announced more than 10 million Covid-19 and flu vaccinations had been delivered nationally. The Covid-19 jabs were made available to those eligible from October 3, while flu jabs have been available for pregnant women and two to three-year-olds since September 1.
Both are now fully rolled out across the country to all remaining eligible groups. Flash Sale!🌟 Get closer to Swindon's stories with The Swindon Advertiser Unlimited local news, an ad-free app, and a digital replica of our print edition—all with 80% fewer ads. Subscribe now for a seamless news experience - https://t.
co/ayrpkI4RBy #StayInformed pic.twitter.com/0RPJk3hDqF In Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire, vaccinations have been administered in walk-in clinics, GP surgeries, pharmacies, and community settings.
The initial phase focused on reaching those unable to leave their homes without assistance, including housebound patients and care home staff and residents. Dr Barry Coakley, deputy chief medical officer for the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: "It’s been a good start to this year’s winter vaccination programme in BSW, which means many of our most vulnerable people are already protected as we move towards the colder months. "However, there are indications that some people at greater risk of getting seriously ill from winter viruses are not coming for their vaccines.
" Dr Coakley encouraged health and social care workers, as well as those in clinically at-risk groups, to get their vaccines. He added: “So, if invited, don’t delay – get the vaccines." The NHS has invited more than 11 million people in England to come forward for their vaccinations, but those eligible do not have to wait for an invitation to book.
They can book a Covid-19 or flu vaccine appointment via the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119. The flu vaccine can also be booked by searching online for a local pharmacy, and there are walk-in sites available to get the Covid-19 vaccine. In recent weeks, there has been a rise in flu and Covid-19 cases and hospitalisations, along with a seasonal rise in RSV.
For the first time in NHS history, vaccinations against RSV also kicked off on September 1 for pregnant women and older adults. Since the national rollout, there have been 714,699 RSV vaccinations administered. Pregnant women who are at least 28 weeks pregnant should speak to their maternity service or GP practice to receive the RSV vaccine, and those aged 75-79 should wait to be invited for their vaccine by their GP practice.
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