Care home staff in South Cumbria have been trained to deliver Covid-19 and flu jabs to residents.

This is part of an effort by NHS staff in the North West, who have managed to deliver more than one million Covid-19 and flu vaccinations since September 1.

Across the North West, NHS staff have worked hard to devise innovative ways of delivering vaccinations to make it as easy as possible for people to receive their jabs.

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, regional director of commissioning for NHS England – North West, said: "The latest data highlights the incredible hard work of NHS staff in successfully rolling out winter vaccinations across the region in a bid to protect those who are most vulnerable as we move towards the colder months.

"From general practice, community pharmacy and colleagues working in hospitals and in the community across our region, they are all coming together to arm as many people as possible with the best protection this winter."

The flu vaccine is the best defence for those most at risk as the weather gets colder and more people gather indoors, with the total number of these jabs given this autumn now at more than 800,000.

NHS teams have also worked with schools and educational centres across the country to deliver flu vaccinations to toddlers and school-aged children outside of their GP practices – with more than one million vaccines delivered this autumn.

Tricia Spedding, head of public health at NHS England – North West, said: “Its been a good start to the vaccination programme this year, but we can always do better.

"Every year many of those at greatest risk of getting seriously ill from winter viruses do not get their vaccines, with many thousands ending up in hospital and far too many tragically dying.

"The threat of these viruses is real – and the best defence against these dangerous illnesses is vaccination.

"It’s crucial that anyone eligible comes forward for their vaccine appointment when they can to protect themselves.

“Those with certain long term health conditions, pregnant women, young infants and older people will be among those eligible for some or all of these life saving vaccines.

“So if invited don’t delay – get the vaccines. And if you’re unsure if you’re eligible or have any concerns please do speak with your GP surgery or local pharmacist.”