The City of London Corporation is urging all those eligible in the Square Mile to protect themselves by getting their flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations.

Make sure you’re ready for winter by getting vaccinated early to prevent the risk of being hospitalised and reduce the pressure on our health services.

Those eligible for both a flu and COVID-19 vaccine include:

• People aged between 6 months to 64 years with certain long term health conditions
• People aged 65 and over
• Pregnant women
• People who live in a care home for older adults

Additionally, children aged 2 to 3 years old can get the children's flu vaccine at their GP surgery. School-aged children will get their vaccine through their school or a community clinic.

You can check your eligibility and book online or by calling 119 free of charge.

Alternatively, people aged 18 and over can find a local pharmacy offering flu vaccines, or you can book directly with your GP surgery.

RSV Vaccine Programme

Starting 1 September 2024, the RSV vaccine protects older adults and pregnant women against RSV - a leading cause of severe chest infection in older adults and infants that causes around 40 deaths in young children every year. Giving the vaccine to pregnant women helps to protect newborns from birth.

Those eligible for RSV vaccine include:

• People aged 75-79
• If you turned 80 on or after 1 September 2024, you're eligible for the RSV vaccine until 31 August 2025. You're not eligible for the RSV vaccine if you turned 80 before 1 September 2024.
• Pregnant women from 28 weeks

While available all year, RSV vaccine for winter is encouraged to prevent severe disease. Get your vaccine through your GP or maternity services. For more details, visit: NHS-RSV Vaccine.

Chairman of the City Corporation’s Community and Children’s Services Committee, Helen Fentimen, said:

“This winter let’s prioritise our health by getting vaccinated. For anyone at higher risk, these vaccinations are essential—they prevent complications that can lead to hospitalisation and, in some cases, life-threatening conditions.

“I strongly encourage all eligible residents and workers to seize this opportunity and get their jabs as soon as possible. Don’t wait, get vaccinated and help keep our city healthy”.

Additionally, City residents can get help with benefits, bills, debts, employment, housing costs and more by visiting the City of London Corporation website or calling 020 7392 2919.

Get winter strong- protect yourself, your family, and the wider community by taking up the free vaccination offer. For any further information, please visit: Vaccinations - NHS.

ENDS

Notes to editors

About the City of London Corporation:

The City of London Corporation is the governing body of the Square Mile dedicated to a vibrant and thriving City, supporting a diverse and sustainable London within a globally successful UK –  www.cityoflondon.gov.uk.