Eastbourne and Willingdon MP Caroline Ansell is urging people to get their Covid booster and flu jabs just as a nationwide advertising campaign is launched to encourage take up.
The advertising blitz from today will run on outdoor billboards, broadcast and community radio and TV to support the national vaccine drive.
Colder weather favours transmission of both viruses and experts have warned there could be a significant surge in infections.
One television advert to be screened primetime asks people to “get vaccinated, get boosted, get protected”, and features Michelle, an NHS nurse, explaining the benefits of the flu jab and Covid booster vaccine.
“All the research and data show vaccines provide the best possible protection against infection and serious disease and I am urging everyone in Eastbourne and Willingdon to step forward and get their Covid jabs and flu vaccines if they are eligible,” said Caroline.
“If we do this it will save lives and ease pressure on the NHS during these crucial winter months. It will also mean we are more likely to be able to continue as we are and not have to consider any further Covid restrictions.”
People eligible for the Covid booster are those aged 50 and those aged 16 and over with a health condition that puts them at high risk from Covid.
The Government has also launched the country’s biggest flu programme in history with 35 million people eligible - mostly aged over 50 - for a free vaccine.
People will be invited for the Covid booster jab when it is their turn - if they have not been contacted within a week of reaching 6 months since their second jab they can call 119 or book online.
Those who are eligible for a free flu vaccine can book an appointment through their GP surgery or local pharmacy.
