This winter there are several important vaccines available free on the NHS to people across South Yorkshire.
As the months get colder and people spend more time indoors in close proximity to one and other, conditions such as FLU, RSV and COVID-19, spread more easily.
All of these viruses pose a risk of developing people developing serious complications and put strain on the NHS in the busy winter months.
The best action and first line of protecting yourself and others from these viruses and potentially developing serious complications is vaccination.
People aged 65 and over are eligible for a free flu vaccine, as well as a pneumococcal vaccination, which helps protect against serious breathing infections such as pneumonia and bronchiolitis. The pneumococcal vaccine usually a one-off vaccination, although some people may need additional doses depending on their health.
The flu vaccine is also available to pregnant women, all children aged 2 and 3 years old on 31 August 2026, primary school and secondary school-aged children, those in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to under 65 years, those in long-stay residential care homes, carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person, close contacts of immunocompromised individuals, people experiencing homelessness and front line health and social care workers.
The pneumococcal vaccination is also routinely available for babies with the first dose given at 16 weeks and a booster dose at 1 year, and children and adults at higher risk of getting seriously ill.
People aged 75 and over are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine, as well as a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine. RSV is a common virus that can cause serious lung infections, including pneumonia, particularly in older people and those with underlying health conditions.
The COVID-19 vaccine is also available to residents of older adult care homes and individuals who are immunosuppressed, aged 6 months and over.
The RSV vaccine is also available to residents of older adult care homes, and people aged 65 to 74 with a weakened immune system or a long-term lung condition.
You will be able check your eligibility for vaccines online at http://www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.
Dr David Crichton, Chief Medical Officer at NHS South Yorkshire said:
“Vaccination is an important way to help protect yourself and those around you from serious illness this winter. As the colder months approach, I would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer of their recommended vaccinations.
“Flu, COVID-19, RSV, pneumonia and bronchiolitis can all cause serious illness, particularly in older people and those with certain health conditions. Getting vaccinated when offered helps to build and maintain protection.
“Please don’t put it off. Find out which free vaccines you’re eligible for today and arrange your appointment as soon as you can”
“I’ll be having my annual flu jab as a health professional and encouraging my family to go and have their eligible vaccines, as soon as they are available.”
How to get vaccinated
People eligible for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations should receive an invite from their GP to book an appointment.
You can also book your vaccines through the National Booking Service https://digital.nhs.uk/services/vaccinations-national-booking-service or NHS App.
People who think they may be eligible for a pneumococcal or RSV vaccine should contact their GP practice to check their eligibility and arrange an appointment.
Don’t wait until you’re feeling unwell to think about your vaccinations - take action now.