WITH winter upon us, Somerset residents are being reminded to protect their health and the health of people around them by getting their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.

If you're 50 and over, a frontline health or social care worker, pregnant, have a long-term health condition, or are a paid or unpaid carer, you are eligible for the free flu jab and you can likely get the Covid-19 seasonal booster.

Children aged 2-15 years old are also eligible for free flu vaccinations through either their GP for pre-school and school for school age children – parents need to sign a consent form.

Cllr Adam Dance, County Hall lead executive member for public health, said: “I want to thank everyone who’s come forward for their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations so far, to protect themselves and others, as well as helping to ease seasonal pressures on health and social care services.

“I’d strongly encourage people who are eligible to book their appointment as soon as possible to protect themselves and the people around them.

"The flu virus is always changing and so you need an annual booster vaccine and Covid-19 protection can fade over time, so it’s important we keep ahead of these viruses and top up our protection when offered. Already we are seeing higher flu rates, than we normally do at this time of year, so it’s time to get vaccinated."

Gary Risdale, programme manager for trhe Somerset NHS Covid-19 programme said: "Whilst the vast majority of eligible people have already come forwards to have their jab, we are keen to ensure that everyone who can have one does it as soon as possible.

"It is especially important to get vaccinated in time for the festive break, where many families and vulnerable people will be spending time together.

“We have worked very hard to open up as many appointments as possible and, more recently, a large number of walk-in clinics where people can just turn up.

"The average appointment takes less than 15 minutes and is time well spent to ensure the best protection for the winter is gained.”

If you are eligible, you can book your seasonal Covid-19 vaccine using the online booking service, by calling 119 or finding a local vaccination walk-in site.

If you have not yet had your earlier doses of the Covid-19 vaccine, it’s not too late to come forward and you can get these at any time.