Local authority leaders are urging people to get their flu and COVID vaccinations amid fears of a joint influenza and COVID-19 pandemic this winter.

Cllr David Fothergill, chairman of the Local Government Association’s (LGA) Community Wellbeing, said there were ‘two essential vaccines’ needed this winter: the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 booster vaccine.

‘Councils and their directors of public health will be doing all they can to work with NHS partners to support the take up of the booster vaccination rollout,’ he said.

‘As we approach winter, providers in the domiciliary care and care home sector are also being encouraged to communicate the benefits of the flu vaccine and COVID booster to care home staff, residents and those receiving homecare.

‘If you are eligible, please do get vaccinated for flu and COVID-19 to protect yourselves and your families.’

NHS director of vaccinations and screening, Steve Russell, commented: ‘The NHS COVID-19 booster programme is off to a flying start with over two million people topping up their protection ahead of winter.

‘But with experts warning that COVID and flu could combine in a ‘twindemic’ there is no room for complacency.

‘We are still seeing hundreds of patients with COVID being admitted to hospital every day and getting an autumn booster could save your life.

‘So, I urge anyone eligible who is yet to get their vaccine, to come forward and book a jab online through the NHS website or by calling 119 as soon as possible if you haven’t yet sorted an appointment.’