Plea as flu and Covid-19 vaccine programme begins

Eligible people in Leicestershire and Rutland have been urged to book in for their free flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.

NHS bosses said they "really do save lives" ahead of the annual programme of vaccinations beginning in the area on Thursday.

People including over 65s, pregnant women, care home residents and the clinically-vulnerable have been urged to get the jabs ahead of the winter months.

Dr Nil Sanganee, chief medical officer of the local NHS Integrated Care Board, said it was "vitally important" to protect those that need it most to help prevent the spread of harmful viruses.

The health expert said during the colder months, "viruses spread at a faster rate".

Sanganee added without the vaccines, vulnerable people could become "seriously unwell" and require hospital treatment.

"Pneumonia and other serious illnesses can develop from flu and Covid-19, which is why we urge all eligible people to get vaccinated before winter fully sets in, so that the vaccines are fully effective within their bodies," he said.

"Older people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are affected more by winter viruses and it's why we're encouraging them and all eligible people to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

"It's also important to remember that the immunity you have built up from previous vaccinations reduces over time and may not be as effective against new variants of both viruses," he added.

• People aged 65 or over, including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027
• People aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions
• Pregnant women
• Living in a care home
• Main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
• Live with someone who has a weakened immune system
• Are experiencing homelessness or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
• Frontline health and social care workers

• People aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2027)
• People aged six months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system
• Live in a care home

Those people who are eligible have been advised to book an appointment with their GP or attend a walk-in clinic without an appointment.

People who believe they are eligible have been advised to contact their GP.

Pregnant women, particularly those due to give birth this winter, have also been urged to have whooping cough and respiratory syncytial virus vaccines when they are eligible.

Health experts added both viruses can be harmful to new-born babies and having the vaccines during pregnancy provides the baby "some protection when they are born".

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