Today · Echonomia Post
Eligible people in Leicestershire and Rutland have been urged to book in for their free flu and Covid-19 vaccinations. NHS bosses said they "really do save lives" ahead of the annual programme of vaccinations beginning in the area on Thursday. People including over 65s, pregnant women, care home residents and the clinically-vulnerable have been urged to get the jabs ahead of the winter months.
Dr Nil Sanganee, chief medical officer of the local NHS Integrated Care Board, said it was "vitally important" to protect those that need it most to help prevent the spread of harmful viruses. The health expert said during the colder months, "viruses spread at a faster rate". Sanganee added without the vaccines, vulnerable people could become "seriously unwell" and require hospital treatment.
"Pneumonia and other serious illnesses can develop from flu and Covid-19, which is why we urge all eligible people to get vaccinated before winter fully sets in, so that the vaccines are fully effective within their bodies," he said. "Older people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems are affected more by winter viruses and it's why we're encouraging them and all eligible people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. "It's also important to remember that the immunity you have built up from previous vaccinations reduces over time and may not be as effective against new variants of both viruses," he added.
Source: BBC
