People across the South West who are eligible for flu or COVID-19 vaccinations are being urged to book their winter protection early, with the NHS national booking service now open.

Flu vaccinations will be available from September 1 for pregnant women, children aged two or three on August 31, all primary and secondary school-aged children, and children aged six months to under 18 who are in clinical risk groups.

From October 1, the flu vaccine will also be offered to people aged 65 and over, those aged 18 to 65 in clinical risk groups, people in long-stay residential care, eligible carers and close contacts of immunocompromised people.

The offer also includes people experiencing homelessness and frontline healthcare workers.

COVID-19 vaccinations will be available from October 1 for people aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older adults, and people aged six months and over who are immunosuppressed.

Dr Matthew Dominey, Consultant in Public Health and Screening and Immunisation Lead at NHS England South West, said flu and COVID-19 could be serious, particularly for older people, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems or long-term health conditions.

He urged eligible people to book as soon as possible, adding that vaccines could reduce the risk of serious illness and help protect vulnerable people around them.

People eligible for both vaccines can have them at the same appointment.

"Booking is quick and easy through the NHS website, the NHS App or by calling 119," Dr Dominey said.

Dr Fiona Neely, Consultant in Health Protection at UKHSA, also urged people to plan ahead while the booking system is open.

Last year, flu vaccination in England was estimated to have prevented around 104,000 hospital admissions and 7,100 deaths.

The NHS will send millions of invitations to eligible people over the coming months, but people do not need to wait for an invitation before booking.

Appointments can be arranged through the NHS website, NHS App, 119 or directly with a GP.