Covid vaccine rollout begins early in the UK with new variant under watch
CNBC Key Points
- National Health Service (NHS) England said the program was brought forward based on the latest expert advice and will prioritize high-risk groups.
- It added that last winter saw high occupancy in hospitals and "record pressure on staff" due to the combination of Covid and flu.
Covid-19 vaccination centre at a Chemist shop on 28th April 2023 in London, United Kingdom.
Mike Kemp | In Pictures | Getty Images
LONDON England on Monday began its winter Covid-19 and flu vaccination campaign ahead of schedule as it monitors a new variant and seeks to avoid another "twindemic" straining the health-care system.
National Health Service (NHS) England said the program was brought forward based on the latest expert advice. Flu vaccines are available to all, while Covid vaccines will be offered to eligible groups including care home residents, over-65s, front-line health and social care workers and those at clinical risk.
The NHS added that last winter saw high occupancy in hospitals and "record pressure on staff" due to the combination of Covid and flu.
