FLU and covid-19 vaccination programmes have been brought forward across Herefordshire and Worcestershire due to risk from a new variant.

Thousands of eligible people have been invited for the jabs to top up their protection as soon as possible.

The vaccines can be administered together at the same appointment with the NHS saying both are vitally important to staying well this winter.

The new covid variant, BA.2.86, has prompted the NHS to work as quickly as possible to ensure eligible people are vaccinated by the end of October.

Those eligible to receive both include everyone aged 65 and over, pregnant women, adults and children (aged 6 months and over) with certain health conditions.

Health and social care staff, carers and residents of care homes for older people are all also eligible.

From Monday, September 18, those eligible will be able to book an appointment on the NHS website or the NHS App, and they will be able to get their jabs from Tuesday, September 19.

Dr Will Taylor, chief medical officer for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire,  said: “We want to protect as many people and families as possible. Vaccinations are our best defence against COVID-19 and flu and we are making every effort to be ready for winter. The defence the vaccines give us wears off over time and with a new variant in circulation, everyone eligible needs to top-up their protection.

“It is safe and effective to receive the flu and COVID-19 jabs at the same time. There is no need to delay getting one or the other – getting your seasonal vaccines is vital so book yours in as soon as you can and encourage your eligible friends and family to do so too.”

Those living in care homes are being prioritised and have already started to receive their vaccinations as of last week.

To make getting jabs easier and closer to home for as many people as possible, dozens of NHS community pharmacies and GP practices across the two counties will be offering COVID-19 and flu jabs:

To book, cancel or change a COVID-19 vaccination appointment, visit https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/covid-19-services/covid-19-vaccination-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/.