THE NHS in Berkshire is kicking off its autumn vaccine roll-out to protect people ahead of the winter.
In particular, expectant mums, all children aged two to 16 years, and those aged six months to 18 years in clinical risk groups, are being prioritised.
Those listed above will be able to get their flu vaccine from September.
Relevant vaccinations will be available for those outside of the selected groups from October 1.
Most school-aged children will receive their flu vaccinations at school, two and three-year old children and those who miss their school or nursery session can get the vaccine at their GP practice or at a community clinic from September. A new community pharmacy flu vaccination service for two and three-year-olds, will commence in October.
Health and social care staff will also be offered a flu vaccine from their organisation from 1 October 2025, with multiple convenient options to get vaccinated based around working and shift patterns.
Pregnant women should speak to their maternity team to receive the flu jab at their scheduled maternity appointments, or by contacting their local GP practice or a pharmacy.
Sarah Bellars, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board, said: “Getting vaccinated while pregnant is the best way to protect your baby from the moment they are born, as it passes on that extra protection to them and helps keep you safe during pregnancy.
“Vaccinations against flu, whooping cough and RSV are recommended by the NHS for pregnant women and are proven to be safe for mothers and babies.
“With flu jabs available for women at any stage of their pregnancy, now is the time for mums to act to make sure their babies are protected ahead of their first few months this winter, with whooping cough vaccines available from 20 weeks and RSV from 28 weeks.”
Sarah explained: “Younger children with flu are also much more likely to get hospitalised and should get the vaccination as soon as possible to ensure they are protected as we head into winter.
“Flu vaccinations can be life-saving and are our best defence against the virus.”
