Eligible people in Herefordshire and Worcestershire who are eligible are being encouraged to come forward for their flu and COVID-19 vaccines.

The vaccination programmes started on Thursday (October 3), with bookings available now.

Similarly to last year, those eligible for the vaccines include all adults over 65, care home residents, people between six months and 64 years with certain health conditions, frontline health and social care workers, and pregnant women.

The flu vaccine is also available for children aged two to three years, school-aged children, and those with specific long-term health conditions.

Appointments can be made via the NHS website, the NHS App, or by calling 119.

They are available at NHS community pharmacies and GP practices across Herefordshire and Worcestershire.

Dr Will Taylor, chief medical officer for NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire, said: "We want to protect as many people and families as possible.

"Vaccinations are our best defence against COVID-19 and flu and we are making every effort to be ready for winter.

"It can be easy to become complacent, however, it’s important for those who are eligible to top up their protection, even if they have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year."