Protect Yourself This Winter: Flu and COVID-19 Vaccinations Now Available

People aged 65 and over, those with certain long-term health conditions, and individuals who are immunosuppressed are being encouraged to take up the offer of their free flu vaccination as Aneurin Bevan University Health Board launches its winter vaccination programme.

Those who are eligible are also being urged to accept their invitation for a COVID-19 vaccination when offered, helping to maintain protection against serious illness and reduce the risk of hospital admission during the winter months.

Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect against serious infectious diseases. By getting vaccinated, people can help safeguard their own health while also reducing the risk of spreading infection to family, friends and others who may be more vulnerable.

The Health Board is also reminding residents about the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine. Unlike seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations, the RSV vaccine is available throughout the year for eligible older adults and pregnant women. RSV is a common respiratory virus that can cause serious illness, particularly in older adults and young babies, and infections often increase during the autumn and winter months.

Vaccines Help Protect Against Serious Illness

Professor Tracy Daszkiewicz, Executive Director of Public Health and Strategic Partnerships at Aneurin Bevan University Health Board, said:

"As we move into autumn and winter, respiratory viruses including flu, COVID-19 and RSV become more common in our communities. While these infections can affect anyone, older adults, people with long-term health conditions and those with weakened immune systems are at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell.

"Vaccination provides an important layer of protection. It helps reduce the risk of serious illness, supports people to stay well throughout the winter, and helps protect those around us who may be more vulnerable. We would encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the vaccines offered to them when invited.

"Although the RSV vaccine is available all year round, it is particularly important to be aware of it as we enter the winter period when cases tend to increase. RSV can cause serious respiratory illness in older adults and young babies, and vaccination offers valuable protection for those most at risk."

How to Access Your Vaccinations

People eligible for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will receive information about how to book their appointment through their GP practice, community pharmacy or the Health Board's vaccination service.

Anyone unsure about which vaccinations they may be eligible for is encouraged to visit the Health Board's immunisation webpages or speak to a healthcare professional.

For more information about flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccinations, including eligibility criteria and how to access them, visit the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board immunisation webpages:

Immunisations - Aneurin Bevan University Health Board

Alternatively, contact the Vaccination Booking Centre on 0300 303 1373 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or email abb.vsbc@wales.nhs.uk.