Flu jab invites are in the post as bosses increase numbers

ELIGIBLE patients will begin to receive invitations this week to get their annual flu vaccine.

GP practices across Leicestershire and Rutland are beginning to contact vulnerable patients who meet the new national eligibility criteria.

Patients are being urged to take up the offer promptly and protect themselves against flu this winter.

GP Dr Nil Sanganee said: “With the added complication of Covid-19 circulating at the same time, having the flu jab will help protect you and your families from being ill and help the NHS to better manage demand this winter.

“The flu virus typically peaks during the winter months and the best way to help protect yourself and others from catching and spreading flu is to have the flu jab every year.

“Flu strains can change from year to year, which means last year’s jab may not protect you from this year’s strains.

“The vaccine usually provides protection for the duration of that year’s flu season.

“Getting vaccinated is important each year but this year more than ever we are urging people to have the vaccine in order to protect themselves, and the NHS, this winter.”

Children aged two and three, plus all primary school-age children and Year 7 in secondary school, will be offered the nasal spray vaccination.

The adult flu vaccine is offered free to those in groups at particular risk of infection and complications from flu. They are:

Pregnant women;

Those aged 65 or over; Those aged under 65 with longterm conditions;

Carers;

Shielded patients and those in the same household aged 18 or over;

Pending supply, 50 to 64-year-olds will be invited November.

Dr Sanganee said: “Due to the pandemic, flu vaccination clinics may be held in a slightly different way this year by each practice and you will be able to get details from your practice website or by calling no earlier than them.

“Flu vaccines will be released in batches, according to availability and the need to prioritise those most at risk.

“This means flu clinics will be staggered in the months ahead. We are asking patients to please book a place in forthcoming flu clinics as soon as they are advertised.”

Those who do not fall within the eligible categories for a free NHS vaccination will be able to buy a flu vaccine from a participating pharmacy.

Dr Sanganee said: “This year, eligibility for the free flu vaccination has been extended to everyone aged 50 to 64, but people in this age group won’t be vaccinated until November and December, providing there is sufficient vaccine.

“We won’t offer appointments for this age group until then.

“I know some people choose not to have the jab because they have been ill afterwards or know someone who has, but side effects for the flu jab are rare, whereas flu can be extremely serious. If you are worried about this, please speak to your GP or practice nurse.”

For a full eligibility list, see: