Keep Yourself and Your NHS Protected This Winter From Flu And COVID-19

This winter, the NHS urges people to get vaccinated against influenza and COVID-19 as soon as possible.

There is no doubt that vaccination is the best way to prevent serious illnesses and prevent overloading the local health and care system.

In the wake of the busiest summer on record, the NHS is preparing for a very challenging winter, when respiratory illnesses are at their peak.

There are many who are concerned and worried about the winter period. Cold weather can make people with respiratory diseases more susceptible to shortness of breath and coughing than usual, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.

There is also a significant risk of catching COVID-19 and flu this winter – with cases and hospital admissions on the rise across the region. It is possible to die from both viruses.

If you catch COVID-19 and flu at the same time, you’re at higher risk of serious illness, especially if you’re older or have a health condition.

Therefore, all hospitals, GP surgeries, and other healthcare establishments across Humber and North Yorkshire, including Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital, strongly encourage visitors to wear face coverings and to wash their hands often.

In the last month, the number of patients with COVID-19 in hospital beds has risen by 50% – and modeling suggests that half of the beds in the Humber and North Yorkshire health and care system will be occupied by patients with respiratory illnesses. Vaccination for COVID-19 and autumn boosters are therefore very important for everyone eligible.

Mike McDermott, Associate Director of Public Health for East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said:

“We expect to see a wave of COVID-19 in Hull and the East Riding of Yorkshire during October/November and possibly another in January. There’s also the risk of the region being hit with a wave of flu cases at the same time so it’s particularly important that people take up the offer of vaccinations as soon as they can. Please also remember the basics – hands, face, space and fresh air. They protect against COVID-19, flu and lots of other nasty viruses that can make you feel quite unwell.”

People of all fitness levels can still catch and spread these viruses to those who are more vulnerable. There are some people who may be more at risk than others, and it is easy to pass these viruses on to them without knowing it.

A seasonal COVID-19 booster is available to people over 50, pregnant women, carers, frontline health and care workers, care home residents, and people of all ages who have weakened immune systems. Visit GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) for details about the autumn booster.

Visit www.nhs.uk/covid-vaccination for more information about the national booking service.