HEALTH bosses in Gloucestershire are urging those who are eligible to get their winter vaccinations "as soon as possible".

The NHS is calling on people to get their vaccines as soon as they are invited to ensure they are protected from "potentially serious" illnesses this winter.

GPs and community NHS teams are offering the COVID-19 and flu vaccines to people who are most at risk of getting very ill.

Those aged over 50 and people under 50 with certain health conditions with be offered both the Covid-19 booster and flu jabs, as will those who receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk, and health and social care workers.

Pregnant women will be offered a flu jab and two and three year olds will be offered flu nasal spray, as will primary school and secondary school pupils up to year 11 through school vaccination programmes.

Dr Andy Seymour, Clinical Chair, NHS Gloucestershire CCG, said: "Our vaccination teams are working hard across the county to invite people for their flu vaccination and COVID booster as soon as possible.

"If you’re eligible for one or both of these vaccines, it’s really important to take up the offer as soon as you’re invited to reduce your risk of becoming seriously unwell.

"The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation have confirmed that adults can have their COVID booster and flu vaccination at the same time, so you may be offered both at the same appointment, subject to supplies.

"Please don’t delay getting your flu vaccine if it hasn’t yet been six months since your second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine; it’s really important to make sure you’re protected against what can be a nasty illness as soon as you can."

The bulk of vaccinations in the county continue to be provided by appointment through the 11 GP-led community vaccination centres and some GP practices.

The NHS says local GPs will soon make contact to book an appointment if they haven’t already.

People can also use the national booking system, website or phone number to book their vaccinations.

Professor Sarah Scott, Director of Adult Social Care and Public Health, Gloucestershire County Council added: "As we head into the autumn and winter months, it’s more important than ever that we all take steps to protect ourselves, which includes taking up the offer of vaccinations if you’re eligible.

"Our most vulnerable residents are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell over winter and it’s also a challenging time for our NHS and social care services.

"With COVID-19 still circulating within our communities it’s likely that this year will be more challenging than previous years.

"Vaccines remain the best protection we have against COVID-19 as well as other serious seasonal viruses like flu.

"If you’re eligible for the COVID-19 booster, flu jab (or both) this winter, I urge you to take up the offer as soon as possible."

For more information about the winter vaccination programme, go to covid19.glos.nhs.uk.