THURROCK residents were able to get vaccinated and prepared for winter, when the NHS Mid and South Essex Integrated Care Board brought a community vaccination bus to the borough recently.

They were able to board the bus in Grays and get advice about winter vaccinations, including the flu, COVID-19, and new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccines.

Healthcare professionals were onboard to vaccinate those eligible or signpost people to their local GP surgery. Adults over 40 years old were also offered free blood pressure checks and gain practical health advice.

Cllr Mark Hooper, Thurrock Council's portfolio holder for health and well-being said: "It was great to see the community vaccination bus in Grays High Street. The winter vaccinations are so important to keep people fit and healthy."

Tom Abell, Chief Executive Officer for NHS Mid and South Essex said: "Nobody wants to get the flu or COVID-19 and we want to make it as easy as possible for people to protect themselves and their loved ones this winter.  

"The community vaccination bus is a great opportunity to bring this service to where people are, giving people the opportunity to have a chat and ask any questions they have.  

"If you qualify for a vaccination, please take up the offer to increase your protection, ahead of winter. It's free on the NHS and there are many ways to book and get vaccinated either via your GP practice or at your local community pharmacy."

To find out more about getting vaccinated this winter, visit NHS Mid and South Essex's Winter Health Hub, which has a dedicated Vaccinations section with information on where local people can get the flu, COVID-19, and new respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccinations.

Residents can also sign up to receive free emails from local healthcare specialists this winter. The emails will provide advice on vaccinations, self-care practices, mental health, falls prevention, respiratory conditions, and how to get the right care from local services.