Children and adults across England will be available for various vaccinations including flu, COVID-19 and RSV as the NHS prepares for the winter season.

The decision comes as an active measure to avoid serious illnesses that might lead to hospitalisation during the colder months.

Offering this protection comes at a significant time when many people flock indoors, hence creating a ripe ground for viruses to spread.

Details about this plan were outlined based on the latest scientific data.

This information has prompted the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation to recommend adults aged 65 and over, those living in care homes for aged adults and those living with underlying health conditions from 6 months to 64 years to be eligible for the flu and COVID-19 vaccination.

The Government further decided that frontline health and social care staff, alongside staff operating within care homes for the elderly, would also receive the COVID-19 jab and flu vaccines, as in previous years.

In another novel move starting September, the NHS will offer vaccinations for Respiratory Syncytial Virus, a widespread source of coughs and colds that could prove harmful to older individuals and small children.

The jab will be open to those aged from 75 to 79, and pregnant women from their 28th week, to keep their child safe.

The new school year in September marks the beginning of flu vaccinations for children aimed at halting the spread of the virus.

Pregnant women are also eligible to get their jab starting from September 1.

Availability for other eligible groups for flu and COVID-19 vaccinations starts from October 3, with people offered an option of booking their appointments as early as September 23.

The bookings run until December 20.

The NHS has designed a system where adults can receive both flu and COVID-19 jabs simultaneously. However, it's advised to have the RSV vaccination on a separate day from any flu or COVID-19 vaccinations for enhanced efficacy.

For appointments, adults could access the NHS application or website, or converse through 119 for free.

Local GP practices and pharmacies will also provide flu jabs. For children between 2 to 17 years, the nasal flu vaccine is recommended.

However, if this isn't suitable, an alternative vaccine injection by the GP or practice nurse can be arranged.

Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening said: "The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are our best defences against these viruses and can be lifesaving - so I would urge everyone eligible to book their jabs when they become available, to protect themselves and people around them.

"This year for the first time, we will also be offering the RSV vaccine to older people and pregnant women, to provide vital protection against this dangerous virus for those at greatest risk.

"These viruses leave thousands of people in hospital each year, and the vaccinations help us to keep more people well during the winter months when we expect the NHS to again be under significant pressure - so please come forward as soon as you are invited."

Minister for public health and prevention Andrew Gwynne said: "Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself against RSV, Covid and flu. I encourage everyone eligible to come forward and take up the offer.

"For the first time ever this year, we’re offering RSV vaccinations as well as Covid and flu doses, supporting the most vulnerable people and protecting our NHS this winter."