More than 100,000 residents in Lancashire and South Cumbria have already come forward for their COVID-19 Autumn booster jab.

The campaign is off to a great start – but with experts warning of a potential double pandemic of COVID-19 and flu this winter, NHS chiefs are urging anyone who is eligible to get their jab without delay.

Carole McCann, Chief Nurse for the Lancashire and South Cumbria COVID-19 vaccination programme said: “The NHS COVID-19 autumn booster is off to a great start in Lancashire and South Cumbria with over 100,000 people topping up their protection ahead of winter. More people are eligible for the jab and with experts warning that COVID-19 and flu could combine to cause real problems for patients and the NHS this winter, we want to ensure that everyone gets the protection they need as quickly and conveniently as possible.

“COVID-19 is still a horrible virus that can make you seriously ill but the best way to protect yourself is to get the vaccine when it is offered to you. There is no room for complacency.”

All those aged 65 and over, health and social care workers, people with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, and others at greater risk from the virus are now eligible to get their autumn booster.

The NHS will contact you when it is your turn to book in for the vaccine – you do not need to contact the NHS.

Those eligible for the autumn booster can book their jab using the National Booking Service, by calling 119, or using the online walk-in finder to find a local vaccination walk-in site.

The NHS is also rolling out the flu vaccine and encourages eligible people to take up the offer of a free flu jab.