The NHS in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland has begun the next phase of its covid and flu vaccination programme, to protect the most vulnerable.

The decision to begin the vaccination programme earlier than planned means those most at risk from winter illnesses – including people in care homes, the clinically vulnerable, those aged 65 and over, health and social care staff, pregnant women, carers and household contacts of immunosuppressed individuals – will all be able to access a Covid-19 booster vaccine this month.

The annual flu vaccine will also be made available to these groups at the same time wherever possible, to ensure they are protected ahead of winter. The autumn campaign provides all eligible people the opportunity to have both their Covid-19 booster and flu vaccines at the same time.

Those living in care homes will be prioritised with vaccination teams starting to administer vaccines this week and they will continue to vaccinate in care homes across the area throughout September and October. All other eligible groups started receiving their vaccinations from Tuesday, 19 September 2023.

Covid vaccines are being distributed across Rutland and Leicestershire. Image credit: Nub News.

People will be invited for a vaccination by their GP practice. They may also receive an invitation to book using the national booking service website or by calling 119, by letter, text message or via the NHS app. The national booking Service opened to eligible people on Monday, September 18 with vaccine appointments for both Covid-19 and flu being available from September 19.

Anyone who believes they should be eligible for a vaccine but does not get invited can self-declare via the national booking service and then speak to a clinician on site. There must also be a gap of at least three months between Covid-19 vaccinations. The NHS App will be able to provide details of all previous Covid-19 vaccinations.

Details can be found at online.