Coronavirus Information
Welcome to our section dedicated to the coronavirus vaccination roll-out in County Durham.
Get involved
Transfer of information to newly formed CCG
Information that has been held previously by NHS Durham Dales, Easington and Sedgefield CCG and NHS North Durham CCG has been transferred to NHS County Durham CCG.
Any questions about the use of data (including patient data) by the CCG should be directed to cdccg.enquiries@nhs.net
Latest news
About our vaccination programme in the North East and North Cumbria
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the region’s NHS vaccinated record
numbers of people against flu last winter and it’s now gearing up to do the same
again this year.
The region’s NHS is appealing to the public, and health and care staff, to ‘DoYourBit’
and get the free flu vaccine this year – with fears that that flu virus is set to return and
will be circulating alongside COVID-19 and other viruses.
Health experts are concerned this year could be one of the worst for flu infections
because immunity has dropped off due to measures designed to control the spread
of COVID-19. It doesn’t mean flu has gone away. Mathematical modelling indicates the flu season
could be up to 50% larger than typically seen. It is also possible it will begin earlier
than usual. Flu really is the last thing people need on top of everything else.
So the NHS is asking people of the North East and North Cumbria to pull together
and do their bit by getting their free flu vaccine. And they are reminding people that flu can be very serious and can even kill – it
spreads easily so you can be putting others at risk. Not only that but if you get flu and coronavirus at the same time you’re more likely to
be more seriously ill.
Those most at risk from flu are also more vulnerable to COVID-19.
Yet the best protection – one vaccine in the arm – is easy to get, it works and is free
for more people than ever before.
The NHS is now pulling out all the stops to deliver what will be its biggest flu
vaccination programme – with an estimated 1.5 million people eligible for a free flu
jab.
At the same time, COVID-19 boosters are being offered for those who had their last
vaccine more than six months ago, and fall into the ‘at-risk’ groups. With people
being reassured that it’s perfectly safe to have both vaccines at the same time if you
are offered them together.
The flu vaccination programme has been extended to include secondary children
from years seven to year 11. That means all children aged two to 15 can get a free
flu vaccine. The offer for 50 to 64 year olds will also continue this year as we know
hospitalisation from COVID-19 also increases from the age of 50.
While record numbers of people came forward for their flu vaccine last year – health
chiefs say uptake still remains low in some areas – meaning many people are still at
risk of becoming seriously ill – such as those with medical conditions, children aged
two -three, pregnant women, carers and care workers.
Just like the COVID-19 vaccine has reduced the risk of serious illness and
hospitalisation. It’s the same for flu – get the vaccine and you will reduce your risk of
becoming seriously ill.