NHS flu and COVID-19 vaccine programmes brought forward due to risk of new variant

This change follows an announcement by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) on the risks presented by the new BA.2.86 variant and pre-emptive measures the NHS has been asked to take.

The adult COVID-19 and flu vaccination programmes had been due to start in October to maximise protection over the winter months, but now those most at risk including adult care home residents will be vaccinated from 11 September.

Jane Scattergood, senior responsible officer for the Lancashire and South Cumbria COVID-19 vaccination programme, said: “While it may seem like COVID-19 is a thing of the past and it isn’t as high-profile as it was, it is still a dangerous illness that can have life-threatening impacts for the most vulnerable people in our society.

“We would encourage everyone who is invited to receive an autumn booster to get one. It is the best way to protect yourself against the disease and the new variant.”

Residents of older adult care homes and those most at risk including those who are immunosuppressed will receive their COVID-19 vaccine first.

Adults aged 65 and over will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccine but should wait to receive an invite from their local provider.

Carers, pregnant women, and health and social care staff will also all be among the groups to be offered a COVID-19 jab this winter, however they will not be identified nationally and therefore should just go ahead and book an appointment when they become available.

The NHS winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme provides vital protection to those eligible and their families over winter, keeping people from developing serious illnesses, and helping to minimise hospitalisations during busy winter months.

With the increased risks presented by the COVID-19 variant BA.2.86, vaccine sites can vaccinate those eligible for both flu and covid from 11 September.

Wherever possible, vaccinations for flu and COVID-19 should still be offered at the same time, making it easier and more convenient for people to get vital protection from both viruses ahead of winter.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning and senior responsible officer for the COVID-19 vaccination programme for NHS England – North West, said: “Vaccinations are our best defence against flu and COVID-19 ahead of what could be a very challenging winter.

“In line with the latest expert advice, we’ll now be starting vaccination earlier than originally planned and NHS teams across the north west will accelerate delivery of the programme to ensure as many eligible people as possible are vaccinated by the end of October.

“Once eligible people receive their invitations, I’d urge them to come forward as soon as possible to get their vital protection against both COVID-19 and flu.”