Get vaccinated to keep loved ones safe

Carers urged to have COVID-19 and flu jabs

Do you care for a loved one who is vulnerable to flu or COVID-19? Would the person you care for be at risk if you were unwell? If so, you are eligible for free seasonal flu and Autumn booster COVID-19 vaccinations.

As a carer, whether paid or unpaid, you're more likely to be exposed to the flu and COVID-19 viruses.

If you care for someone who may be at greater risk, it's easy to pass these viruses on without knowing.

NHS Devon's Deputy Chief Nurse, Susan Masters said: "Both flu and COVID-19 can be life-threatening and increases the risk of serious illness to you and the person, or people, you care for.

"The risk is particularly high during winter, when viruses circulate most, so it is better to get protection as early as you can."

The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are the best protection against these potentially life-threatening viruses for carers and the people they care for.

It's not too late for anyone who hasn't received any COVID-19 vaccinations yet. These are still available and can be booked through the National Booking Service or by calling 119.  Search for 'Book a COVID vaccination' online to go to the NHS website.

Susan added: "If your GP knows about your caring responsibilities, you will receive an invitation directly from them, but you can also book yourself an appointment on the National Booking Service, or by calling 119 if you don't have access to the internet. You can also find your nearest walk-in vaccination clinic online. You do not need to bring any form of ID or proof of your caring responsibilities.

"If you haven't already, please let your GP know you are a carer, this will help us to ensure you know about other vaccinations and support you are eligible for."

For anyone struggling locally to book an appointment or find a vaccination centre close to them, help and support is available from the Devon Vaccine Support Team by emailing d-icb.devonvaccinationsupport@nhs.net or calling 01752 398836

At some vaccination centres, the flu vaccine may be offered at the same time, but if not, you can get this at your GP practice or community pharmacy another time - it's better to get what you need as soon as you can rather than waiting to have both at the same time.

Is the information correct?

Let us know if the information on this page needs updating.

Want to create a page on the Plymouth Online Directory?  Register for free and add a page - it only takes a few minutes.

This page was last updated on 1 December 2022.