Chelmsford residents turned out in significant numbers last week as a vaccination van delivered nearly 100 jabs in a single session — protecting everyone from toddlers to 93-year-olds.
The East of England Community and School-Aged Immunisation Service offered both flu vaccines for children and adults and COVID-19 vaccinations for eligible groups. The pop-up clinic drew families, older residents, and teenagers, many sharing personal reasons for protecting themselves and others.
Local Residents Share Their Reasons
- David Croes, 14, opted for the nasal spray flu vaccine. “I want to protect myself ahead of winter – the nasal spray flu vaccine is quick and doesn’t hurt,” he said.
- Sarah Williams, 51, from Chelmsford, attended with her daughter Florence after recently completing cancer treatment. “It’s so important for me and my family to be vaccinated against flu so we can protect each other,” she said. As someone who is immunosuppressed, vaccination is a vital layer of protection for her health.
- Fifteen-year-old Gabriella dropped by the van after a tutoring session to receive her nasal spray vaccine. She wanted to protect her grandparents and reduce her chances of becoming seriously unwell.
- Joanne, 50, a local carer, also received her flu jab. “Community vaccination events like this make it easy for eligible people to protect themselves – and others – too,” she said.
Expert Commentary
Dr Matthew Sweeting, Executive Medical Director for NHS Mid and South Essex said:
“What stood out in Chelmsford wasn’t just the number of vaccinations delivered, but the personal reasons people shared for coming forward. From young people wanting to protect their grandparents to those recovering from cancer treatment, every story reminds us how vital this protection is.
“As we head into the colder months, vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness. It is all the more important this year as we are seeing more cases of flu earlier in the year with hospital admissions increasing. The Chelmsford session shows how mobile clinics can remove barriers and make it easier for people to stay well.
“I’m incredibly proud of our team and grateful to local residents for taking the time to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Caroline Shepherd, Assistant Director of East of England Child Health and Immunisation Programmes, said:
“We’re delighted that so many people took this opportunity to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations.
“We want to make it as easy as possible for people to get their vaccines this winter, and we work tirelessly in all weather conditions to deliver exceptional care and support to our community.
“The flu virus changes every year, which is why it is so important to get the new vaccine each year and protect yourself and your loved ones against getting seriously ill.”
Community Impact
The East of England Community and School-Aged Immunisation service delivers the full UK vaccination programme to school-aged children and communities. Its community mobile clinic is part of NHS Mid and South Essex’s winter vaccination programme, which aims to make vaccinations more accessible by bringing services directly into local communities.
Councillor Natacha Dudley, Cabinet Member for an Active Chelmsford, said:
“Our thanks to our local NHS for bringing their vaccination van to the High Street to help eligible residents who haven’t yet had their winter vaccines.
“One of the big reasons for rising hospital admissions at this time of year is the seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses. Mobile clinics in the city centre are an easy way for people to get the protection they need for themselves and vulnerable family members.”
The vaccination van’s next stop will be in Thurrock on 3 December at The Civic Hall in Blackshots Lane.