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With the festive season approaching, now is the time to make sure you are protected against COVID-19 and flu. There are just 10 days to go until online bookings for the vaccines close, and the NHS in Lancashire and South Cumbria is urging anyone still eligible to book an appointment and get potentially lifesaving protection ahead of the festive season. The NHS online booking system, NHS App and 119 phone service will be closed for flu and COVID-19 vaccine bookings from 15 December, making 14 December the last day to make a booking. There are still a number of walk-in sites across Lancashire and South Cumbria that will continue to offer vaccinations until 31 January 2024. Details of these are available at www.healthierlsc.co.uk/getmyjab. Anyone looking for help or advice on how to get a COVID-19 vaccination can continue to call the vaccination helpline on 0300 7906 856. Ashraf Karbhari, lead nurse on the Lancashire and South Cumbria COVID-19 vaccination programme, said: “Christmas is always a time where family and friends get together to celebrate, but it’s also a time when COVID-19 and flu are more likely to be in circulation. “With less than two weeks to go until online bookings close, we would recommend that anyone who is eligible should take up the offer of getting their vaccines. “It is really quick and simple to book, and getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, family and friends.” Vaccination is the best way for people to ensure they and their families are protected against flu and COVID-19 this Christmas when the viruses spread more easily as people spend more time indoors. It takes about two weeks following vaccination to build up the maximum defences against the viruses, so it’s important to book in early. It is crucial to get this protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and the viruses change each year. Nationally, more than four million COVID-19 vaccination appointments have been booked on the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119, and now is the time to take advantage of these platforms, which are the easiest way to book until online bookings reopen next year. |