HEALTH chiefs across Coventry and Warwickshire are urging residents to protect the NHS by having their flu vaccination as soon as possible.
Officials say residents should consider how cold weather and winter viruses may affect them and vulnerable family members, especially while covid-19 is still rife.
Although the flu vaccination does not protect people from coronavirus, scientist are expecting a surge in virus cases as we head towards the winter flu season.
This year’s free flu vaccine will be offered to more people than before to help protect the health of our communities.
This includes those aged 65 or over, pregnant women, anyone with chronic conditions such as COPD and diabetes, children aged two to 12 (or year 7), those working in care, and people shielding from covid and their household.
Later in the year people aged between 50 and 64 will also be included. GPs or the School Immunisation and Vaccination service will shortly be in touch with people who fall into these categories. Many pharmacies across Coventry and Warwickshire will also be offering free flu vaccines.
The councils in Coventry and Warwickshire are strongly advising all residents who are eligible have a flu vaccination to try to reduce the impact on the NHS and social care, and to protect those at risk and prevent ill-health.
Only 70 per cent of over 65s, and less than half of those with chronic health conditions, had the flu vaccination last year, both groups being at higher risk of complications from both flu and covid-19.
Warwickshire County Council health spokesman Les Caborn said: “Warwickshire County Council is encouraging anyone who is eligible to attend their free flu vaccination appointment. Covid 19 is still prevalent and we should all take steps to protect ourselves and others from serious, preventable viruses such as flu.
“Protecting vulnerable people from flu, and also protecting our health and social care services this winter is a priority for us. Vaccinating healthy children is also an important way of protecting others. Although flu is a mild illness in most, it can and does kill. We urge people to make their appointment today and not to delay.”
Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/flu for more information.
