Posted on Thursday 12th December 2019
Staffordshire people are being reminded to get their flu vaccine in the run up to Christmas.
At risk adults and children who haven’t had the vaccination are being encouraged to book an appointment with their GP or pharmacist to help protect against the flu during the festive period and into the new year.
Christmas time often sees an increase in celebrations and social occasions with family, friends and work colleagues meaning people have more chance of coming into contact with the flu virus.
Dr Richard Harling, Director for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“The festive season is a busy time of year and it can be easy to put off getting the flu vaccine. However, if you are entitled to a free flu jab you should really take up the offer as it gives protection from what can be a nasty virus. We would encourage all Staffordshire people who need it to book in for their vaccine as soon as possible to help themselves stay well this winter.”
Getting the vaccine offers residents the best protection and it is routinely given for free on the NHS to:
- adults 65 and over
- people with certain medical conditions (including children in at-risk groups from 6 months of age)
- pregnant women
- children aged 2 and 3 on 31 August 2019
- children in primary school
- frontline health or social care workers
People in these risk groups are more likely to develop potentially serious complications of flu, such as pneumonia, so it’s recommended that they have the flu vaccine every year.
For children, the vaccine is offered as a yearly nasal spray.
Residents can get their NHS flu vaccine at their GP surgery, a local pharmacy offering the service or their midwifery service if they offer it for pregnant women.
More information can be found at https://www.nhs.uk/fluvaccine