65 and over? Make sure you get your free flu jab now
People aged 65 and over are being urged to take up their free flu vaccine this winter.
The call out comes as current figures (up to 31 October 2016) are showing a drop in take up compared to the same time last year.
Flu can be very unpleasant. Flu can be very severe in certain people, including people aged 65 and over, pregnant women and those with long-term health conditions such as bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, heart or kidney disease. Anyone in these risk groups is more likely to develop potentially serious complications of flu such as pneumonia and worsening of existing conditions. The free vaccination is available to these groups from GP surgeries and pharmacies.
The flu jab is safe and effective. The viruses that cause flu can change every year, so you need a vaccination each year that matches the new viruses. Don’t put off getting the flu vaccination. If you’re eligible get it now and ensure that you have a good Christmas. It’s free because you need it.
Karen Calder, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for health and well-being, and Chair of Shropshire’s Health and Well-being Board, said:-
“The flu vaccine is the best protection we have against an unpredictable virus. I can’t stress enough how vital it is for those eligible to again take up their free flu jab, as the vaccine protects against different strains of flu which can change and/or evolve each year.”
Lee Chapman, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adults, added:-
“Catching flu is a miserable experience for everyone, but for some people it can be incredibly debilitating and can increase their risk of developing a more serious illness, especially if they have an existing condition. I would strongly encourage those who are eligible to take up the free flu vaccine.”
Carers and staff who support vulnerable people are also advised to take the vaccine, as not only will it protect them, but also help reduce the risk of spreading flu to their family members and those people they support.
Dr Julian Povey, Chair of Shropshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said:
“Across health services in the area, we have many sick and vulnerable people in our care, and it is our duty to protect them from flu.
“That’s why we have been proactive with the ‘flu fighters’ campaign, and we are determined to increase the number of people taking up the vaccination this year.”
If you do start to feel unwell, even if it is just a cough or cold, don’t wait until it gets more serious, get help from your pharmacist. The sooner you get advice the better – pharmacists are here to help you stay well this winter.
For more information to how to stay safe and well this winter, visit shropshire.gov.uk/stay-safe-and-well-this-winter/
