NHS urges Bishop’s Stortford, Sawbridgeworth and Stansted residents to get vaccinated for Christmas

The NHS in Hertfordshire and West Essex is encouraging residents to get vaccinated for Christmas.

Jabs are available to vulnerable people at risk of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) – a common cause of coughs and colds – and Covid-19.

Dr Jane Halpin, chief executive of Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB), the body that plans and oversees how NHS money is spent locally, said: “When you are making plans for Christmas, please make getting your vaccinations a top priority.

“These viruses are far more than just a cough and a cold – they can cause severe complications, particularly for older adults, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions.

“Sadly, each year, we see too many babies, young children and older adults admitted to hospital because these viruses have made them very unwell.

“Please make time to have the vaccinations you’re entitled to now so that you safeguard Christmas for you and your family.”

So far this winter, the ICB has protected more than 230,000 people against Covid-19 with a further 500,000 vaccinated against flu and 23,000 older people and 2,000 unborn babies protected from serious respiratory illness thanks to the new RSV vaccine.

Dr Halpin added: “With flu, Covid and RSV cases expected to rise over the coming weeks and months, it’s vitally important that everyone eligible, and particularly people with long-term health problems, reduce their risk of becoming seriously unwell as a result of an infection.

“For pregnant women, vaccines offer protection for both themselves and their baby at a time when they are particularly vulnerable.

“As we anticipate another busy few months ahead for the NHS, I would urge people to act now and come forward for their free vaccinations.”

For more information about vaccination eligibility, see www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/your-health-and-care/stay-well/vaccinations/.