Get flu-safe
As the autumn sets in and winter approaches, it’s time for those at greatest risk from flu to protect themselves and their families, and get flu-safe with a free flu immunisation. (The Shropshire County NHS Primary Care Trust said today).
Flu is a highly contagious infection that anyone can catch, and it can be a really serious illness for some. Those at greater risk from flu include people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, and those with health conditions such as severe asthma, chest or heart complaints, and diabetes.
From October 2012, those people at most risk will be encouraged to get flu-safe with a free flu immunisation from their GP. The NHS in England is launching the new Flu-Safe campaign to remind people that they should get a flu immunisation. Flu-Safe is a national message to highlight the importance of getting the immunisation, and carries facts about flu to dispel common misconceptions.
Professor Rod Thomson, Shropshire County PCT’s Director of Public Health, said:
“Flu is not like a cold – it can be a really serious illness for some people, and it doesn’t just affect older people. If you’re aged 65 years or over, pregnant, have lowered immunity or a long term health condition such as severe asthma, a chest or heart complaint, or diabetes, then you should also get a free flu immunisation from your GP and get flu-safe. The flu immunisation is completely safe, and it cannot give you flu.
“I would like to encourage everyone in Shropshire who knows anyone who may be at risk from flu to tell them how important it is that they get protected. People who are carers and frontline health and social care staff are also encouraged to get a free immunisation to protect themselves and those around them.”
The flu immunisation changes every year to fight the latest strains of flu, so even if you had an immunisation last winter you need another one this year to stay flu-safe. The immunisation doesn’t contain the ‘live’ virus so it cannot give you the flu.
Dr Catherine Woodward, NHS Telford and Wrekin’s Director of Public Health, said:
“I strongly encourage people not to underestimate flu and to book their free flu immunisation as soon as possible. Flu can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. In the most serious cases, seasonal flu might mean hospitalisation – it can even be a killer.
“If you’re in any of the ’at risk’ groups, flu immunisation is a completely free and safe way to protect you and your family. I would also like to stress that the flu immunisation cannot give you flu as it is not a live vaccine. Do not listen to the flu myths, find out the flu facts from your GP.”
The immunisation is available from October 2012 to January 2013. However, the best time to be immunised is at the start of the flu season from October to early November, so it’s good to get in early and get flu-safe in time for the winter.
Simply contact your GP to arrange a convenient appointment and get your flu immunisation. It’s quick, safe and free for those most at risk from the virus.
For more information, speak to your GP or find us on Facebook.
