Protect yourself from flu and COVID-19 this winter with vaccination

With the winter months approaching and the long summer nights coming to a close, bugs and viruses begin to do the rounds and many of us become ill around this time of year.

That’s why it’s important to protect yourself against viruses, such as flu and COVID-19. Vaccinations are the best protection we have against these infectious diseases so it’s important to take them up when they are offered.

Those who are most at risk from flu and COVID-19 are being invited for vaccination this winter. That includes people who are older, pregnant women, people with an eligible underlying condition, those who provide vital face-to-face care for someone, and those who work in certain roles.

You can check if you are eligible by using the self-help guide at NHS Inform.“Getting vaccinated is the safest and most effective way to give protection against viruses circulating this winter,” said Linda Bauld, Professor of Public Health at the University of Edinburgh.“The flu virus is always changing and protection from the COVID-19 vaccine fades over time, so it’s important that those eligible keep their protection levels topped up by coming forward for the vaccines when invited.Taking up all vaccinations offered throughout life is the most important thing we can do to protect ourselves and our children.”If you’re in one of the below groups, you’re eligible for the flu vaccine this winter:If you’re in one of the below groups, you’re eligible for both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines this winter:You don’t have to contact your GP to arrange your vaccination.