Don’t delay when it comes to free jabs this autumn

They won’t cost you a single penny – but could save your life

By the time you’re reading this magazine, you may already have had your annual flu jab and COVID-19 booster vaccination, but if you haven’t (or haven’t been invited yet), then it’s extremely important that you take up the offer when you’re contacted and have your free vaccines.

COVID-19 booster vaccinations are being offered this autumn for everyone over the age of 50, as well as those with particular chronic health conditions. Of course, if you have not had any previously, then you will be able to start with your first dose, or whichever doses are needed.

Vaccinations will also be offered against influenza (flu). This vaccine needs to be given annually and this year, like last year, is being offered to everyone over the age of 50, as well as pregnant women, front-line health care workers and those with particular chronic health conditions. In previous years the vaccine was offered to all over 65s – not all over 50s – but it was felt that due to COVID-19 and concerns of a severe flu season, it should be offered to all adults over the age of 50. Having these vaccines not only helps protect you, but also your friends and family.

There are always lots of myths and questions around vaccinations, such as why have a COVID-19 vaccine if you can still catch COVID-19? Well, although no vaccine is perfect, it will reduce your chances of getting the infection. If you do get it, having had the vaccine also means that you are less likely to become seriously unwell and require hospitalisation. Does the flu vaccine give you the flu? No, but it can give short-lasting side effects, such as a fever, aches and pains. And while this might seem inconvenient and something you’d rather avoid, it’s definitely a better option than contracting the flu.

You can safely have your flu and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. If you have to delay your appointment, for

example, if you have a fever that day, then be sure to rearrange it.

Depending on your age you may also be eligible for other vaccines. People aged 65 and over are eligible for a one-off pneumococcal vaccine to protect against pneumococcal infections, which can cause pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis. And if you are between the ages of 70 and 79, you are also eligible for the shingles vaccine to protect against the painful skin infection, shingles.

The burdens and strains on the NHS continue, and with the costof-living crisis also taking its toll, preventative measures are more important than ever. That’s why, when you are invited to attend cervical- or breast-cancer screening, or are sent bowel-cancer screening kits in the post, don’t put them off either. Complete the test or make the relevant appointment. Cancer screening saves lives.