All over-50s can book their Covid boosters and flu jabs from tomorrow amid fears of a growing “twindemic”.
From Friday October 14, online and phone bookings will open to about 12 million 50 to 64-year-olds in England to get their autumn Covid boosters.
Jabs will be administered during the same appointment if stocks of both vaccines are available locally.
It is feared low levels of immunity against flu and resurgent Covid strains could cause tens of thousands of deaths as winter will be the first time both have been widespread.
NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard said: “Thanks to the incredible work of our frontline staff across the country, our Covid autumn vaccination programme continues to go from strength to strength as we open up eligibility to around 12 million more people.
“As we approach what could be an extremely challenging winter for the NHS, it is vital to get your protection against both Covid and flu so please book in when you can.”
Seven million people in England have now had their Covid booster of the 26 million eligible as infection rates shoot up.
Data from the Southern Hemisphere suggests we will also get an early flu surge this year so all those eligible are now being encouraged to come forward.
Dr Susan Hopkins, chief medical advisor at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “It’s crucial that you take up the free flu vaccine as soon as possible if you are offered it.
“It will help protect you from severe flu this winter and could even save your life.
“All those over 50 are now eligible for the jab, many of whom will have low natural immunity due to Covid-19 restrictions over the last two years.”
Both vaccines are being offered to over-50s, care workers, care home residents, the pregnant, close contacts of the immunosuppressed and those with long-term health conditions.
Children can also receive free flu vaccines as a nasal spray, usually given out via their schools.
