Both viruses spread more easily at this time of year and can cause serious illnesses. Frontline health and social care workers and carers in Wolverhampton, along with anyone who is aged 50 or over or in an at risk group, is eligible for a free Covid-19 booster and flu vaccination this autumn.
Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "Respiratory viruses affecting the lungs and airways are more prevalent in winter and can be life threatening to more vulnerable people, such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.
"So, with winter fast approaching, I would encourage anyone who is eligible for their Covid-19 autumn booster and flu vaccination to get them booked in as soon as possible. I would also remind anyone who is eligible for their Covid-19 vaccination and hasn't yet had their first or second dose that it is not too late to get it.”
Councillor Linda Leach, Cabinet Member for Adult Services, said: “The NHS is already seeing much higher levels of flu than it did last year and we know that Covid-19 hasn't gone away, so it is imperative that people get their flu vaccinations and Covid boosters as soon as they can – particularly if they work in a frontline health or social care role, or if they are a carer.
“By doing so, you not only increase the protection you will personally have against flu and Covid-19, but you will also reduce the chances of passing on either virus to people around you who may be at higher risk if they were to catch it.”
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, added: “With Covid-19 and flu circulating this winter, it’s vital that everyone prepares for potential winter illnesses, especially those who are at higher risk.
“Getting vaccinated helps you and the NHS, which is already facing extreme pressures in the run up to the very busy winter season. That’s why we’re urging all those eligible for an autumn Covid-19 booster and a flu vaccine to come forward as soon as possible and top up their immunity."
To find out more about the Covid-19 and flu vaccinations, visit Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine and Flu vaccine respectively. Covid-19 vaccinations can be booked online via the National Booking System at Book or manage a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination or by calling 119, while the pop up clinic is at Molineux Stadium from Wednesday to Friday (30 November to 2 December) from 10am to 2pm each day.
It is also available at Park Village Education Centre, Cannock Road, Low Hill, today (Tuesday 29 November) from 1 to 7pm, Saturday, Sunday and Monday (3 to 5 December) from 10am to 4pm and Tuesday 6 December from 1 to 7pm. No appointment is necessary and both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are available.
