Public Health news: Winter Health
December 2022
Winter Health
Winter can be a challenging time of year for many of us but there's lots of things we can do to keep ourselves healthy.
If you haven't already, it's not too late to get your winter vaccines.
COVID-19 and flu spread more quickly in winter and can cause serious illness. The protection provided by COVID-19 vaccines decreases over time and flu viruses can change every year.
So, if you're 50 or over, in an at-risk group, or pregnant, boost your immunity now with the flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster.
Many children are also eligible for a free flu vaccine.
Find out if you're eligible at NHS Winter Vaccines and book now.
Flu and Covid-19 vaccinations are important this winter because:
- more people are likely to get flu as fewer people will have built up natural immunity to it during the COVID-19 pandemic
- if you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, research shows you're more likely to be seriously ill
- getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 will provide protection for you and those around you for both these serious illnesses
If you've had COVID-19, it's safe to have the flu vaccine. It will still be effective at helping to prevent flu.
Some people may be eligible for both the flu and the COVID-19 booster vaccines. If you are offered both vaccines, it's safe to have them at the same time.
Check getyourjab for details of covid and flu vaccination sessions. Many of these are drop-ins so you don't need an appointment!