COVID-19 Booster Vaccines, Autumn 23: What Carers Need to Know
As a Carer, you will be aware of the crucial role you play in ensuring the health and wellbeing of your loved one. Stay informed about the latest vaccination updates, including the autumn booster vaccine, to better protect yourself and your loved one from COVID-19 and reduce the potential impact on our healthcare system.
The autumn booster vaccine plays a critical role in reducing the spread of the virus. Keeping your loved one and yourself safe. By staying informed and taking action, you can make a real difference in the fight against COVID-19.
Who is eligible for the autumn COVID-19 booster?
The autumn booster vaccine is available to those at greatest risk of serious illness from COVID-19. This includes:
- Care home residents,
- All adults aged 65 years and over,
- People aged 6 months to 64 years in a clinical risk group,
- Frontline health and social care workers,
- People aged 12 to 64 years who are household contacts of people with immunosuppression,
- People aged 16 to 64 years who are Carers or staff working in care homes for older adults.
When is the booster available, and how do I book an appointment?
Vaccination start dates
Starting on 11 September, vaccinations for the autumn booster will be available for adult care home residents and immunosuppressed individuals. From 18 September, the NHS will invite people in priority order of risk to book an appointment.
Why have the dates for Autumn Flu and COVID-19 vaccine changed?
The start date for this year’s autumn flu and COVID-19 vaccine programmes has been moved forward following the identification of a new COVID variant. As a precautionary measure, scientists from UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggest that speeding up the autumn vaccine programme will deliver greater protection.
The booking process
To book an appointment for the autumn booster vaccine, visit the National Booking Service. Be sure to have your NHS number and other important information ready when booking. Find booking information here: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services
Where will I find my NHS number?
- On any letter from the NHS like a prescription or appointment letter;
- Call your GP surgery and ask them for your number;
- Alternatively, find it online here https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number
What are the benefits to getting an autumn booster?
- Protect Yourself and Others from COVID-19. Getting the autumn booster vaccine is crucial for protecting against severe illness, hospitalisations, and deaths from COVID-19. By getting vaccinated and encouraging your loved one to do the same, you can help protect yourselves and others from the virus.
- Be Part of the Solution. By getting vaccinated, you are not only protecting yourself, but you are also doing your part to help reduce the spread of the virus. Together, we can make a difference in defeating COVID-19.
- Stay Ahead of the Game. The COVID-19 pandemic is still ongoing, and new variants may emerge. Getting the autumn booster vaccine is the best defense against future threats.
What to expect after getting the autumn booster?
Mild side effects
You may experience mild side effects after receiving the autumn booster vaccine, such as a sore arm, headache, or fatigue. These symptoms usually disappear within a few days.
For more information about the side effects and safety of the vaccine visit the NHS website here: https://www.nhs.uk
Boosted immunity
The autumn booster vaccine will help boost your immunity against COVID-19 and reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalisations, and deaths from the virus.
Note that if you test positive for COVID-19, you should not receive the autumn booster vaccine until you have completed the required isolation period.
Getting vaccinated is your choice
We understand that deciding whether or not to get vaccinated is a personal choice that you and your loved one need to make together.
While getting the autumn booster vaccine is critical for reducing the spread of the virus, there are other ways to help keep your loved one and yourself safe. These include washing your hands frequently, wearing a mask in public spaces, and practicing social distancing. It’s important to remember that these measures can also help prevent the spread of other illnesses, such as the flu.
It’s up to you and your loved one to make the decision about whether or not to get vaccinated. We encourage you to stay informed about the latest updates and information, so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you.
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