Vaccine marketing campaign launches

A Covid and flu marketing campaign has launched to encourage people to get their vaccines.

Around 10 million people have already had their jabs.

Adverts will run on tv, radio and social media and highlight the importance of getting both jabs.

Cases and hospitalisations have been climbing for both flu and Covid.

Health secretary, Thérèse Coffey said: "Our COVID autumn booster and flu vaccination programmes are in full swing. Vaccines are our best line of defence against both viruses and will help keep people out of hospital this winter.

"While we have made great progress with almost 10 million people already boosted, including me, we are actively encouraging, through our new marketing campaign, everybody eligible to come forward for both jabs as soon as possible."

Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England, Dr Thomas Waite said: "The restrictions we had in place to curb the spread of COVID and protect the NHS last year also prevented the flu virus from spreading as we would normally expect to see, so levels of immunity in the population are likely quite low.

"Flu has started circulating at low levels, mainly in children and younger people at the moment. As winter approaches, we can expect flu and COVID cases to rise in all age groups. Getting vaccinated against both viruses is the most important thing you can do to reduce your chances of getting seriously ill. If eligible please come forward for your jabs as soon as you can – it is important to be protected before any winter surges begin."