2 December 2024

St Mary’s Vaccination Hub is urging people who are eligible to take advantage of the autumn/winter vaccination programme and protect themselves against winter viruses. 

Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to help stop the spread of winter respiratory illnesses and help keep symptoms mild should you get flu or COVID-19. 

Since the vaccination hub re-opened at the beginning of October the team at St Mary’s has administered over 7,000 COVID and flu vaccinations and has helped to keep island community and NHS staff protected this winter.

Sue Lightfoot, Clinical Lead at St Mary’s Vaccination Hub said: “We know that respiratory illnesses such as flu and COVID-19 are circulating in our community and getting vaccinated is the best way to reduce our risk of becoming unwell.

“Both viruses can be incredibly unpleasant but for some they can quickly progress and cause serious illness leading to hospitalisation. We need to keep our island population protected especially as people will be meeting in larger groups indoors over the Christmas period which significantly increases the risk of spread of infection.

"If you are eligible for a COVID-19 or flu vaccine, don’t delay in getting vaccinated. Both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations can be given in one appointment making it really convenient, or separately if people prefer.”

From Monday 2 December to Thursday 19 December St Mary’s Vaccination Hub is open for walk-ins on Mondays and Thursdays from 7:45 AM to 1:00 PM or alternatively you can book an appointment via the National Booking Service or by using the mobile phone NHS App, or by calling 119. 

Who is eligible?

You may be offered the COVID-19 vaccine if you:

  • Are aged 65 or over.
  • Are pregnant.
  • Are aged 6 months to 64 years and have a health condition or treatment that increases your risk of serious illness.
  • Live in a care home for older adults.

For those in these groups who have not previously received a COVID-19 vaccine, a single dose is recommended.

You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:

  • Are aged 65 or over (including those who will turn 65 by 31 March 2025).
  • Have certain long-term health conditions.
  • Are pregnant.
  • Live in a care home.
  • Are the main carer for an older or disabled person or receive a carer's allowance.
  • Live with someone who has a weakened immune system.

The Vaccination Hub will close for the Christmas and New Year break on Thursday 19 December 2024.