Flu Season and COVID Boosters 2021 – Update

Flu jabs

The practice still has stocks of flu jabs to enable patients to get your flu vaccination this winter. Eligible patients should telephone the surgery to book a vaccination as soon as possible before this years stocks are all used.

New guidance for booster vaccinations

In response to concerns about the new Omicron variant, the JCVI has recommended that booster vaccinations should be offered to all adults and that the gap between the second dose and booster is reduced to a minimum of 3 months. People who are severely immunosuppressed and have had their 3rd dose will also be offered a booster, a minimum of 3 months after their third dose.

These recommendations will come into effect from 13 December. As before, people will be prioritised according to age and risk, and the NHS will contact you when it is your turn for your booster. Unfortunately from 22 December we are not able to offer boosters to patients due to the need to maintain other vital primary care services. However, there are a number of local vaccination services available which you will be able to choose from using the NHS National Booking Service.

If you are aged 40 or over or in an at risk group and had your second dose 6 months ago, you can book your booster now at www.nhs.uk/covidvaccine or by calling 119. Otherwise, please wait to be contacted.