NHS Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board is urging people to protect themselves and their families by getting vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Launching their Winter Wise. Immunised! campaign, the ICB said:
“Winter viruses spread more easily when we spend time indoors. Flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness, especially in older adults, pregnant women, and those with long-term health conditions. RSV is a common virus that can be particularly dangerous for babies and older adults.”
“Vaccination is the best defence. It reduces the severity of symptoms, speeds up recovery, and lowers the risk of hospitalisation. Even if you’ve had flu or a vaccine before, immunity fades and viruses change each year—so it’s vital to stay protected.”
The ICB issued the following advice regarding vaccine eligibility:
- Flu: Pregnant women, children aged 2–16, people aged 65+, those with long-term health conditions, carers, care home residents, close contacts of immunocompromised individuals, and frontline health and social care workers.
- COVID-19: People aged 75+, care home residents, and those who are immunosuppressed (aged six months+).
- RSV: Pregnant women (from 28 weeks onwards) and adults aged 75–79 (or turned 80 after 1 September 2024).
Dr Nigel Wells, family GP and NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB’s Executive Director of Clinical and Professional, said: “The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows Rhinovirus – what many of us would call the common cold – has been on the increase in recent weeks, together with COVID-19, flu and RSV.
“While it’s not uncommon to have these illnesses circulating more at this time of year, these viruses can pose an increased risk to people with existing long-term conditions, like heart, kidney or respiratory disease. Pregnant women are more likely to be hospitalised if they catch flu or RSV.
“On 2 January this year, more than 300 local people were seriously ill with flu in our hospitals – the equivalent of 10 full wards – so it’s definitely something people should take seriously.
“Vaccination is the best defence.”
You can check your eligibility for the free flu and COVID vaccines and find your nearest vaccination centre at https://humberandnorthyorkshire.org.uk/vaccinated/
If you are pregnant and have not been offered the RSV vaccine around your 28-week antenatal appointment, you are advised to contact your maternity service to book.
If you’re aged 75–79 (or turned 80 after 1 September 2024), you can contact your GP surgery to book your RSV vaccination. There’s no need to wait for an invitation.
