NHS Somerset has officially launched its winter vaccination campaign, urging those eligible to receive their flu, Covid-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines. Health leaders emphasize that these viruses can have a severe impact on vulnerable individuals and frontline healthcare workers, who risk illness and work absence.
Caroline Upton, Vaccination Service Lead for Somerset, explains, “Each winter, flu, COVID-19, and RSV place a significant strain on our communities and hospitals. In the past two winters, 1,780 people in Somerset were hospitalized because of these infections, with heartbreaking losses in some cases.”
She adds, “Vaccination is the most effective way to protect yourself and your loved ones. It’s quick, easy, and plays a critical role in reducing serious illness while supporting our NHS and care workers.”
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Booking for Covid and flu vaccines began on September 1st, with most appointments available from October 1st. Eligible individuals may receive invitations via text, letter, or the NHS App. People can also book vaccinations directly online at the NHS website.
Vaccinations are offered at GP surgeries, pharmacies, and designated clinics throughout Somerset.
Winter Vaccination Eligibility
Starting September 1, 2024:
- Pregnant women
- Children aged 2 or 3 years by August 31, 2025
- Primary school children (Reception to Year 6)
- Secondary school children (Year 7 to Year 11)
- Children aged 6 months to under 18 years in clinical risk groups
Starting October 2024:
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Adults aged 18 to under 65 with clinical risk conditions (per Green Book, Influenza chapter 19)
- Residents in long-term care homes
- Carers receiving carer’s allowance or those caring for elderly or disabled individuals
- Close contacts of immunocompromised people
- All frontline health and social care workers, including non-clinical staff without occupational health schemes
Additional groups eligible include adults aged 75 and over, care home residents, and immunosuppressed individuals aged 6 months and older, as detailed in UK Health Security Agency guidelines.
RSV Vaccine Information
RSV is a common virus that can cause serious illness among babies and older adults. Protection via vaccination is offered through the NHS to pregnant women from 28 weeks gestation and adults aged 75 to 79, including those turning 75 on or after September 1, 2024.
Contact your GP to arrange an appointment for RSV vaccination.
Additional Winter Support
Beyond vaccinations, Somerset offers a range of services to help residents through the winter months:
- Household grants to assist low-income families with winter expenses
- Somerset Warm Hubs providing advice, support, companionship, and access to food larders and clubs
- Free, healthy food offerings through food banks and clubs
- Support for managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, smoking cessation, and type 2 diabetes
- Lifestyle and physical activity programs through organizations like SASP, offering free exercise classes and walking clubs
- Community pharmacy services including prescriptions through Pharmacy First and assistance with common conditions like colds and childhood illnesses
Stay protected and supported this winter by getting vaccinated and accessing the available local services.