NHS In Sussex Delivers Nearly 300,000 Winter Vaccinations So Far

Thursday, 26 October 2023 04:05

By John Warburton

The NHS in Sussex has this week released its latest winter vaccination figures, with a plea for members of the public who've not yet been protected to come forward for treatment.

Health services have been delivering the flu and Covid-19 boosters across the county, making it the second highest vaccine-delivering county in the south-east of England.

However, NHS chiefs said that, while many people have received their protective jabs, a significant amount of those eligible in Sussex are still yet to have booked their winter booster vaccines.

The health service in Sussex has been urging these people to do so without delay to make sure they have maximum health protection over the winter months. 

Latest statistics show that the winter vaccination programme, labelled "life-saving" by scientists and doctors, has already delivered winter top-ups to 287,690 of 713,622 of eligible people in Sussex, since its launch last month (September 2023).

Those people eligible to receive the flu and Covid vaccines include those aged 65 and over, frontline health and social care workers, those deemed at risk because a weakened immune system, people with a learning disability or who are pregnant.

NHS Sussex clinical lead, Dr Selma Stafford, said:

"We are urging over 65s and other vulnerable adults to look out for their invitation to book their winter vaccinations.

"Strengthening your immunity is crucial to staying healthy this winter.

"The vaccinations provide vital protection to the most vulnerable and their families, helping to also keep people out of hospitals during the winter months.

"Please don’t miss out on this opportunity to protect yourself and your loved ones."

Appointments can be booked directly with GP-led local vaccination service following an invitation, online, by phoning 119, their GP or local pharmacy.

For those who have difficulties communicating or hearing, or are a British Sign Language (BSL) user, you can use textphone 18001 119 or the NHS 119 BSL interpreter service.