This winter, Hounslow London Borough Council is urging people to take steps to protect themselves, their family and their local community by getting their winter flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible.
Both vaccines are free and getting vaccinated has never been easier. Both the flu and the COVID-19 vaccinations are available at venues across Hounslow, including GP surgeries, pharmacies and health centres.
The Council’s Health Outreach Team (HOT) is also visiting locations across the borough with its roving vaccination bus.
You don’t need to make an appointment to get your vaccines in the HOT bus, just turn up on the day and they’ll do the rest. The team of pharmacists can also answer your questions about staying well this winter.
Keep an eye out for the friendly team visiting your area in the coming weeks and months.
Groups that are eligible for both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines include people aged 65 and over, people with lower immunity, and people who live with them. Anyone who is pregnant is also being urged to get their flu vaccination to help protect themselves and their babies.
All children aged between two and 17 years old are being offered the flu vaccine, with older children receiving it through their schools.
Earlier is better
Flu and COVID-19 can spread faster during the winter months as the weather turns colder and people spend more time gathering indoors. These viruses can lead to serious health issues, which could require hospital treatment for you or a loved one. In some cases, they can be fatal.
Health officials in Hounslow are stressing the need for everyone eligible for the vaccinations to get them as soon as they can. The sooner you get them, the longer you’ll enjoy their protection. To save time, you can arrange to get your COVID-19 and flu vaccinations at the same time.
More than 50,000 people in the borough have already taken up the offer of free vaccinations and are actively helping to slow the spread of these viruses. By getting vaccinated, you can help not only shield yourself from severe illness but also contribute to the collective effort to build immunity within the community.
Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Health and Transformation, Councillor Samia Chaudhary said: “Getting your winter vaccinations is one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family and your community from the spread of these viruses.
“These vaccinations can reduce the risk of severe illness if you catch the viruses. By getting your vaccination, you will also be helping to prevent a surge in cases which could have a serious impact on our local health services.”
For more information about the vaccinations, including the full list of eligible groups, visit: hounslow.gov.uk/get-winter-ready
