Last two weeks to book online for a winter vaccine
With just two weeks until online bookings for Covid and flu vaccinations close, the NHS is urging anyone still eligible for these jabs to book an appointment to get protected ahead of Christmas.
The NHS online booking system, NHS App and 119 phone service will be closed for flu and Covid vaccination bookings from 15 December, making 14 December the last day to make a booking.
There are still free vaccination appointments available each week across our health region of Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West (BOB), offering extra protection to those who have not yet come forward. For up to date details please go to our Staywell website at: bit.ly/bobvaccineclinics
People will be able to book their vaccinations after 15 December through pharmacies or walk-in sites, but there will be fewer Covid appointments and you may need to travel further to get your jab.
So the overall message is clear: if you are eligible for a free Covid and/ or Flu vaccine, book now while there are more clinics on offer and you can do it online.
Rachael Corser, Chief Nursing Officer at the NHS Integrated Care Board for BOB, said: “It only takes a few moments to book your flu and Covid vaccines online and with just two weeks to go until online bookings close, we’re urging those who haven’t yet come forward to do so.
“Getting vaccinated as soon as possible will help reduce your risk of getting seriously ill or passing flu or Covid-19 to your family and others this festive season. So while you’re getting ready for Christmas, make some time to prioritise your health by getting vaccinated to ensure you stay winter strong and keep your plans on track.
“It’s also worth remembering that each winter, thousands of children require treatment in hospital for complications from flu. Many of these hospital visits or admissions can be prevented by a simple vaccine which can be given as a quick and easy nasal spray for younger children.”
It takes about two weeks following vaccination to build up maximum defences against the viruses, so it’s important to book in early. It’s also important to get this protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or Covid before, as immunity fades over time and the viruses change each year.