Open letter from the Public Health Agency to people ‘at risk’ regarding the seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccines

The Public Health Agency (PHA) is encouraging people who fall into an ‘at risk’ group to take up the offer of the autumn vaccinations as soon as you are invited.

All individuals in clinical risk groups who are aged from six months to 65 years, as well as those aged 65 years and older, are advised to receive the vaccines.

If you are ‘at risk’, either due to older age, a health condition, medical treatment or are pregnant, you are at increased risk of becoming seriously unwell if you contract influenza or COVID-19. Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent infectious diseases as they teach our immune system how to recognise and fight viruses. They are safe, effective and free for all those in the eligible groups.

If you have questions about the vaccines, talk to your healthcare provider and make an informed decision.

Some people may be offered the flu jab and COVID-19 booster vaccine at the same appointment. It is safe and effective to receive it in this way.

Being vaccinated against both viruses will give you the best protection from a potentially devastating double threat this winter.

The programme is being implemented using a combination of GPs, community pharmacies and Health and Social Care Trusts, with the majority of vaccinations expected to be administered by GPs and community pharmacies.

People who are eligible for vaccination should make themselves aware of their own GP surgery’s, community pharmacist’s or trust’s vaccination arrangements.

Household contacts of immunocompromised individuals and carers are also eligible. Find out more at www.nidirect.gov.uk/wintervaccines.

So, if you are eligible for either the flu vaccine, COVID-19 vaccine or both, take up the offer when invited to help protect yourself and those around you this winter.

Yours sincerely,
Dr Louise Herron, Deputy Director of Public Health, Public Health Agency