The mobile vaccination unit will be parked outside Barclays Bank between 10am and 3pm on both days. The service is part of Essex's winter vaccination programme, aiming to make it easier for eligible residents to receive their jabs before winter viruses circulate more widely. Protection from the flu vaccine can take up to 14 days to develop.
Vaccinations are available for those at the greatest risk of serious illness. Eligibility criteria differ between the flu and COVID-19 programmes. The NHS COVID-19 vaccine programme is open to residents aged 75 or over, those aged 6 months to 74 with a weakened immune system, and care home residents. The NHS flu vaccine is available to immunosuppressed individuals, adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, carers, care-home residents, homeless people, and those with certain long-term conditions. Vaccinations are also available for children aged two and three, and home-schooled children from reception to year 11.
School-aged children not home-schooled can receive their flu vaccine through their school. The Essex Vax Van is operated by the East of England Community and School-Aged Immunisation Service. For individuals unable to attend the Vax Van, adult vaccines can be booked at GP practices or pharmacies. Children aged two and three can also get their flu vaccine from GP practices or some pharmacies.
