West Sussex County Council – Stay safe from Covid-19 this winter

“We want everyone across West Sussex to be as safe as possible during the festive period, and throughout the rest of winter. The best way to do that remains the Covid-19 vaccination,” says the Director of Public Health for West Sussex.

The eligibility for booster jabs has now been extended by the government to everyone aged 18 and over who had their second dose at least three months ago.

First and second vaccine dose appointments continue to be available as well as boosters.

Our webpage contains further information as well as links to NHS pages and instructions how to book.

The NHS is working hard to increase the availability of appointments on the National Booking System from Wednesday, 15 December and some local vaccination services are also contacting patients directly. If you are unable to book straight away on the National Booking System website or 119, please continue to check back regularly.

Alison Challenger, Director of Public Health for West Sussex, added: “We encourage everyone who is eligible to come forward and book their booster vaccination, or their first or second dose if they are yet to have those.

“At the same time, we must continue to follow the mandatory wearing of face coverings in most indoor settings and on public transport, as well as getting tested regularly.

“And don’t forget to keep washing your hands regularly, keep a safe distance from others and let fresh air into indoor spaces. These are simple steps we can all take to prevent the spread of viruses.”

Councillor Bob Lanzer, Cabinet Member for Public Health, said: “I want to personally express my thanks to everyone for your efforts so far to keep yourselves and others safe.

“The Covid-19 rates here in West Sussex remain higher than the national average though. As we get nearer Christmas and further into the winter months, we can take the familiar simple steps to protect ourselves and those around us.

“As well as vaccination and testing please remember hands, face, space and let fresh air in.

“We’ve seen before just how quickly and well people across our county pull together to keep our communities safe. The latest vaccination drive will require another big effort and I encourage people to volunteer in response to the call from the NHS.”

Anyone going into a crowded space or visiting vulnerable friends and family, is asked to take a lateral flow test beforehand. Lateral flow tests are quick and easy to use, and free testing kits can be collected or ordered. Please also report your results via the NHS app or website.

Information about help and support to people affected by Covid-19 is also available on our website.

The postcode checker on our data dashboard provides the latest available data on case rates across the county. As well as taking up the vaccine offer, testing regularly helps keep communities safe.

Don’t forget to get your flu jab as well, in addition to the Covid-19 vaccines, to increase your protection this winter.