Dr James Davies MP is encouraging people to protect themselves and their loved ones from Covid and flu this winter, and the NHS from additional winter pressures.
The colder weather in the winter months favours transmission and experts have warned there could a significant flu surge, alongside continuing or rising Covid cases. That is why the NHS is pushing the biggest winter vaccine campaign ever for Covid and flu, including in the Vale of Clwyd, so people can help protect not just themselves and their loved ones this winter and play their part in reducing pressure on the health system.
Vaccines provide the best possible protection against infection and serious disease and so it is vital people come forward for both Covid jabs and flu vaccines. The Covid booster programme was launched to prolong protection into winter. For those aged 12 – 15 it is also important to come forward for a single dose to reduce transmission in schools and keep pupils in the classroom.
This year will see the country’s biggest flu programme in history with 35 million people eligible for a free vaccine. Starting this week, the country’s leading pharmacies have joined forces to encourage people to come forward and get their free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster jab when eligible.
People will be invited for the COVID-19 booster jab when it’s their turn. Those who are eligible for a free flu vaccine can book an appointment through their GP surgery or local pharmacy.
Commenting, Dr James Davies MP said:
“I would like to thank everyone who has already come forward to receive their first two doses of the Covid vaccine, and would encourage anyone who has not yet done so, to get booked in. Likewise, all those who have been offered a booster jab are strongly encouraged to attend for this.
“I am aware that locally, there have been a number of concerns raised relating to the Covid booster vaccine programme and, in particular, difficulties in accessing the vaccination centre in St. Asaph. I have raised concerns with the Chief Executive of BCUHB relating to the appropriateness of the OpTic Centre for some of those currently eligible for their booster. I am aware of a lack of public transport; late evening appointments being offered to elderly or vulnerable residents; long queues on occasions trailing outside the centre; and a disparity between the various GP surgeries, with some conveniently offering the booster in-house, and others signposting to the OpTic Centre.
“I have requested that this model be reconsidered and that alternative options are provided to those having difficulty accessing the St Asaph centre.
“I have also raised concerns regarding the difficulties many are encountering in getting through on the phone line if they are wanting to cancel or amend their appointment.
“I want to ensure that the booster vaccines are as accessible as the initial doses and that there is nothing standing in the way of those wishing to be vaccinated.
“Through a renewed national effort to get jabbed against Covid and flu, building on the biggest flu programme in history, we can continue saving lives by building up our protection against the virus.”
Commenting, Health Secretary Sajid Javid said:
“Our vaccine programme is building a wall of defence across the country and our booster rollout is now well underway with more than 4 million jabs in arms.
“As we go into winter, it is vital that eligible people get their booster jab and their flu jab to protect themselves, their loved ones and the NHS.
“This is a national mission and I’m hugely grateful to the public, volunteers and NHS workers rolling out jabs. It is fantastic to see some of our biggest high street pharmacies give their backing to the winter vaccination programme.”
