Local MP Robert Largan is throwing his support behind a nationwide advertising campaign to encourage people to protect themselves and their loved ones from Covid-19 and flu this winter.
Experts have warned that colder weather favours transmission, and that there could be a significant flu surge this winter amid rising Covid-19 cases.
In response, the Government is pushing the most extensive winter vaccine campaign ever for both Covid-19 and flu, to help reduce pressure on the NHS.
The multimedia campaign will run on outdoor billboards, broadcast and community radio, and TV.
The television advert hitting our screens asks people to “get vaccinated, get boosted, get protected” and features an NHS nurse explaining the benefits of the flu jab and Covid-19 booster vaccine.
Targeted digital channels will also carry the campaign adverts, including social media platforms, digital radio, and online video streaming sites such as YouTube.
72,360 people have already received the first dose in the High Peak, and 67,611 have now received a second dose.
Vaccines provide the best possible protection against infection and severe disease, and so it is vital people come forward for both Covid-19 jabs and flu vaccines.
The Covid-19 booster programme was launched to prolong protection into winter, and for those aged 12–15, it is important to come forward for a single dose to reduce transmission in schools and keep pupils in the classroom.
35 million people across the country are eligible for a free winter flu vaccine and Covid-19 booster jab.
People will be invited for the Covid-19 booster jab when it’s their turn—if they have not been contacted within a week of reaching six months since their second jab, they can call 119 or book online.
Those eligible for a free flu vaccine can book an appointment through their GP surgery or local pharmacy.
Robert Largan, MP for High Peak, commented:
“I am incredibly grateful to the fantastic NHS workers, volunteers and pharmacists rolling out the vaccination programme. As a result of their hard work we’ve been able to open up the High Peak and make progress back towards a normal life.
“Every one of us must continue to play our part by taking up the offer of a vaccine to protect our loved ones and the NHS.
“These are difficult times, and I know that many are worried about the weeks and months ahead. Through a renewed national effort to get jabbed against Covid-19 and flu, we can continue to build up our protection against the virus, helping to save lives and keep businesses open.”
Health Secretary, the Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP, commented:
“Our vaccine programme is building a wall of defence across the country, and our booster rollout is now well underway, with more than 4 million jabs in arms already.
“As we go into winter, it is vital that eligible people get their booster jab and their flu jab to protect themselves, their loved ones, and the NHS.
“This is a national mission, and I’m hugely grateful to the public, volunteers and NHS workers administering jabs.
“It is fantastic to see some of our biggest high street pharmacies give their backing to the winter vaccination programme.”
