Autumn/Winter flu and COVID-19 vaccination update

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has provided an update on the BA.2.86 COVID-19 variant in England and the identification of further cases. It notes that, while there is a degree of community transmission, it is too early to draw conclusions about the variant’s behaviour and characteristics. UKHSA will continue to monitor the situation and provide a further update next week.

As before, vaccination, COVID-19 treatments and the current IPC guidance, remain the best way to help protect against infection across adult social care, and we ask you to continue with these measures.

As set out in a letter to the care sector last week, the COVID-19 and flu autumn/winter vaccination programme will begin on Monday 11 September and staff and residents are encouraged to take up the offer as soon as possible.