Health experts have urged people to get vaccinated amid predictions of a possible “twindemic” of both Covid-19 and flu this winter.

The NHS has urged people in Bradford district to book their flu and Covid booster jabs to protect themselves and the most vulnerable.

Vaccination teams across Bradford and Craven have already started offering the jab to those at greatest risk – including over 65s, pregnant women and carers.

The NHS will contact eligible people when it’s their turn for the booster and invite them to make an appointment.

People will either get a text or call from their local GP service or an invitation from the National Booking Service, which will allow them to choose a convenient centre to attend or walk into.

Sarah Muckle, director of public health for Bradford Council, said: “As we head into the winter months, we must make sure we take steps to limit the spread of all strains of COVID, to protect our communities and limit the impact on the district.

“If you or someone in your family is due a Covid vaccination, including the autumn booster, it is really important you get booked in now or when offered.

“Everyone needs to remember that as well as Covid, flu is a serious disease hitting many people across the district and can require hospital treatment and that some people will even die from the disease.

“Even if your symptoms are mild, getting your vaccination is a lot easier than having to deal with the fever, aches and other symptoms of flu that could keep you from work or family life.”

Bradford Telegraph and Argus: Call for people to get their flu and covid jab this winterCall for people to get their flu and covid jab this winter (Image: PA)

It comes after NHS England chief executive Amanda Pritchard said the organisation is preparing for a potential ‘twindemic’ over the colder months.

People in clinically at risk groups are 11 times more likely to experience complications if they get flu.

Uptakes for Covid and flu vaccinations “certainly” reduced the number of serious illness cases as well as deaths last season, according to Phillipa Hubbard, nursing/professions and care standards at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust.

Ms Muckle added: “It is important to boost your immunity - your ability to fight off infections – by having the vaccination when it is offered so you are best placed to fight off any infections this winter.”

Dr Mahendra Patel OBE, a globally-recognised pharmacist originally from Little Horton, added: “Nobody wants to be in hospital but the last place you want to be in hospital is over the winter period.

“This is in our hands, we can do something about it.”

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