Over four million have had their flu jab in Midlands

MORE than 4 million people have now had their flu vaccination in the Midlands, ensuring they have vital protection in what has been the worst flu season for a decade.

With flu still in circulation, the NHS is urging people in the region to get vaccinated now to ensure maximum protection. There are still a number of eligible people who are yet to take up their flu vaccinations and are therefore at increased risk of serious illness.

Those eligible for the flu jab include all people aged 50 and over, health and social care workers, those “at risk” due to another medical condition, as well as pregnant women and children aged two and three.

For children, the flu vaccine is offered as a nasal spray, which is quick and painless. Parents and guardians of children aged two and three and children in high-risk groups can make an appointment at their GP surgery. Secondary schoolaged children are being vaccinated this month through schools and community clinics. If parents and guardians think their reception and primary school-aged children have missed their flu vaccination, they should contact their local school-aged vaccination service or ask at their school if unsure.

Roz Lindridge, the NHS England director responsible for overseeing the vaccination programme across the Midlands, said: “We are delighted that over 4 million people in the Midlands have now come forward for their flu vaccination. NHS workers, GPs and pharmacists have all done an amazing job to get people protected from the dangers of flu this winter.

“Anyone who has been invited for a flu vaccine but yet to take it up should come forward now – it is not too late and I would urge you to book an appointment at your local pharmacy, GP or via the National Booking Service, as soon as possible. There are many local sites, including GP surgeries and pharmacies that are offering the free jab and getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent yourself becoming seriously ill with flu and potentially needing hospital care.”

https://www.nhs.uk/ conditions/vaccinations/ book-flu-vaccination/