Jersey Launches Winter Vaccination Programme

Islanders are being urged to book their seasonal vaccinations as Jersey’s winter flu and COVID-19 programmes get under way.

From today (29 September), flu jabs are available at GP surgeries and pharmacies. The vaccine is free for those most at risk, including:

• Adults aged 65 and over

• Healthcare staff and registered carers

• Clinically at-risk children between 6 months and 2 years

• All children aged 2 to 16 (offered in schools as a nasal spray)

• At-risk adults aged 16 to 50, including pregnant women

• Household members of islanders who are clinically vulnerable or on the shielded list

Catch-up clinics will be held for children who miss their school vaccination day.

Alongside the flu jab, COVID-19 boosters are also being offered this season. Those eligible include:

• Adults aged 75 and over

• Residents in care homes for older adults

• Immunosuppressed islanders aged 6 months and above

Professor Peter Bradley, Jersey’s Director of Public Health, stressed the importance of early vaccination.

“Flu viruses change from year to year, so a new vaccine is needed each season for the best protection,” he said. “Both flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness, especially among our most vulnerable. I encourage everyone eligible to arrange their vaccine as soon as possible.”

Further details about eligibility and how to book are available at gov.je/wintervaccines.