Region Västerbotten has announced that everyone 18 years or older can now schedule appointments to get vaccinated against covid-19 or influenza.
Those considered at risk have been able to get vaccinated against covid-19 and flu since the beginning of November, but now others who wish to be vaccinated can also book an appointment.
– The general public will be able to get vaccinated from December 4, but we are opening the booking system now so that people can make appointments, said Ronny Lestander, vaccination coordinator for Region Västerbotten, in the press release.
– Transmission of covid-19 has been high for several weeks and the flu season is approaching, Region says.
– It is especially important that those who are recommended to be vaccinated do so, as they are at increased risk of becoming seriously ill. Getting the flu vaccine reduces the risk of spreading the flu to others if you are sick. This can be especially beneficial before Christmas and New Year, when you may be in contact with others who have an increased risk of becoming seriously ill, says Maria Marklund, infectious disease physician at Region Västerbotten.
Region Västerbotten's goal is to have 75 percent of people aged 65 and older vaccinated against both covid-19 and flu.
– It is good to see that demand for vaccination is high. More people should be vaccinated, so they are protected this winter. Those who are in a risk group should take the opportunity to book an appointment now to ensure they receive their vaccines, as there may be even more demand now that people over 18 can schedule their vaccinations, says Marklund.