PEOPLE across the Keighley district eligible for the latest Covid-19 jab are being urged to come forward as the end of the current campaign approaches.

The winter vaccination programme, at NHS walk-in centres and selected pharmacies, finishes on January 31.

Regional health chiefs warn that people who don't get the jab before then will have to wait for a future seasonal campaign, likely to be in April, unless they develop a new condition or start a treatment which severely weakens their immune system and are advised by a clinician to obtain a vaccination sooner.

Dr Yvette Oade, regional medical director and clinical lead for the vaccination programme, says: "Vaccination is the best way for people to ensure they and their families are protected this winter, when viruses spread more easily as people spend a greater amount of time indoors.

"It takes about two weeks following vaccination to build up the maximum defences.

"It's crucial to get the protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with Covid-19 before, as immunity fades over time and viruses change each year."

She adds: "Although uptake of the seasonal vaccine has been encouraging, there are still over 800,000 people across the region at a higher risk of falling seriously ill due to Covid that have not been vaccinated.

"As we approach the end of the winter campaign, we're encouraging people to come forward and get vaccinated to keep you, and those around you, safe."

Those eligible for the vaccine include care home residents and staff, anyone aged 65 and over, people in clinical risk groups, carers, and frontline health and social care workers.

The plea is echoed by Dr James Thomas, medical director at NHS West Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, who says cases of Covid-19 – and flu – are on the rise, as are hospitalisations due to the illnesses.

"Getting vaccinated against both flu and Covid-19 will help protect you and your loved ones," he adds.

"It’s particularly important that those most at risk are protected – especially older people and those with underlying health conditions – both to reduce the chances of becoming seriously ill as well as easing pressures on local NHS hospitals and staff.

"That’s why we are urging everyone eligible who hasn’t yet had their vaccine to come forward before the Covid-19 programme finishes."

For more details about Covid-19 and the vaccination programme, go to wypartnership.co.uk/demo/archived-pages-2023/our-priorities/nhs-covid-19-vaccination-programme