Vulnerable Royston residents in clinical at-risk groups are urged to get their COVID-19 and flu vaccines this winter.

NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough has revealed that, across Cambridgeshire, Peterborough and Royston, only 27 per cent of those eligible for a COVID vaccine and 35 per cent of those eligible for a flu vaccine have been protected.

There are still more than 68,000 at-risk people in the area who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19.

People who are at risk include those with:

  • Conditions that affect breathing, such as severe lung conditions, poorly-controlled asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and cystic fibrosis
  • Heart conditions, such as congenital heart disease and hypertension
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis
  • Chronic digestive issues, such as severe gastro-oesophageal reflux
  • Some conditions that affect the brain or nerves, such as Parkinson's disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy
  • A learning disability
  • Diabetes, Addison's disease or hypopituitary syndrome
  • Spleen problems such as sickle cell disease, or if you've had your spleen removed
  • Having a body mass index of 40 or above
  • Severe mental health conditions such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
  • Some genetic disorders such as mitochondrial disease and chromosomal conditions
  • A weakened immune system due to HIV or AIDS, chemotherapy or steroid medication

For flu vaccines, there are more than 74,000 people across the area in at-risk groups who have not been vaccinated.

The at-risk groups are similar to those for COVID-19, except those with chronic digestive issues, hypopituitary syndrome, severe mental health issues and genetic disorders are not considered to be as at risk from flu.

You can book a vaccine at https://www.cpics.org.uk/the-vaccinators.

Cali Makewell, integrated vaccination service lead with NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, said: "Some people might not be aware they are eligible for these two free vaccines, or had them previously and think they might not need them again.

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"But it’s very important to get these vaccines as you are at an increased risk of getting seriously ill without their protection.

"We have walk-in opportunities all across the county, with lots of local pharmacies taking part.

"You can also still book a vaccine appointment if preferred."