[dropcap type=”circle”]I[/dropcap]f you’re eligible for the free flu vaccine, don’t put it off. Get it now.
Wirral’s annual flu vaccination campaign is underway. Residents who are eligible for the free flu vaccine are strongly encouraged to contact their GP practice or pharmacist now. For most people, flu is unpleasant but for some people, it is dangerous and can kill.
That’s why the vaccine is available for free for:
- all pregnant women
- people with long-term health conditions
- everyone aged 65 and over
- people who are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person
- children aged 2 – 7 years
Pregnant women can get vaccinated at any stage of pregnancy. The flu vaccine is safe and helps to protect both mum and baby from complications that can be caused by flu.
If you have a long-term health condition, the effects of flu can make it worse, even if the condition is well-managed and you normally feel well.
If you have children aged between 2 and 7 years old, don’t put off taking up their free flu vaccination this season. GPs are offering the vaccine as a nasal spray to all children aged 2, 3 and 4 years old. The spray is very quick and painless – a spray in each nostril. It protects the children and helps to stop flu spreading in the local community. The spray is being offered to children in school-years 1, 2 and 3 through their school.
It is best to have the flu vaccination in the autumn before any outbreaks of flu.
Remember that you need it every year, so don’t assume you are protected because you had one last year.
To get your vaccine or find out if you are eligible, contact your GP, pharmacist or midwife for more information. Visit www.nhs.uk/staywell for more details on how to help you and your family to stay well this winter.
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