‘Time is running out’ to get Covid booster & flu jab in time for Christmas with just hours to go until bookings close
THOUSANDS of Brits are being urged to get their Covid boosters and flu jabs before bookings close in a matter of hours.
The NHS online booking system, app and 119 phone service will shut down for appointments from December 15, health officials warn.
It comes as cases of both bugs are on the rise.
It's the last time eligible Brits in England will be able to get a free jab ahead of the festive period, when "lots of people will be coming together with their families and friends," the NHS said.
Steve Russell, NHS England vaccine director, said: "Getting vaccinated is the best way to keep you and those around you from getting seriously ill during the colder months.
He added: "If you haven’t yet taken up the offer – now is the time to do so; nobody wants to be unwell at Christmas”.
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Those over 65, long-stay care home residents, frontline health and social care workers and those more at risk of severe illness are eligible for both jabs.
People at increased risk from both illnesses include those with long-term health conditions, severe or multiple learning disabilities, severe mental health conditions, hormone disorders, weakened immune systems and those living with severe obesity.
Pregnant women and school-age children can also get a free flu jab on the NHS.
It will still be possible to book vaccinations after December 15 through local NHS vaccination services, like pharmacies or walk-in sites.
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However, there will be fewer Covid appointments, and you may need to travel further.
More than 11million Covid and 16million flu have been dished out by the NHS since Autumn.
Covid and flu on the rise
It comes as the number of people in hospital in England with flu is rising, new UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures suggest.
An average of 402 people were in hospital each day last week with the bug, up by nearly two-thirds from 243 in the previous week, including 18 people in critical care beds.
It is the highest number so far this winter.
Meanwhile, the number of people in hospital with Covid has risen recently, signalling the start of a possible winter jump in infections.
Admission of patients testing positive for coronavirus stood at 3.8 per 100,000 people in the week to December 10.
This is up from 3.0 the previous week and 2.5 a fortnight ago.