12th October 2020
Our business is keeping people safe. From responding to incidents to carrying out proactive visits to homes and businesses and many other roles in between, we are all working hard to protect our communities.
Another effective way in which you can protect yourself, your loved ones and the most vulnerable in our community is by having a flu vaccination if you’re eligible*.
Every year flu has a major impact on the NHS and social care services during winter months; in an average year the flu virus kills 11,000 people and hospitalises many thousands more.
Flu vaccine and COVID-19
This year, more than ever, getting your flu vaccine is even more critical given the challenge that COVID-19 presents. The flu vaccine will not protect you from getting COVID-19. However, it will help protect you against the flu, that can cause complications leading to hospital admission. It is vital that those most at risk are vaccinated to reduce demand from flu on NHS services and to avoid exacerbating COVID-19 pressures.
Flu vaccination is important because:
- if you’re at higher risk from coronavirus, you’re also more at risk of problems from flu
- if you get flu and coronavirus at the same time, research shows you’re more likely to be seriously ill
- it’ll help to reduce pressure on the NHS and social care staff who may be dealing with coronavirus
Changes have been made to make sure it’s safe for you to have the flu vaccine at GP surgeries and pharmacies. These changes include social distancing, hand washing and wearing protective equipment.
It’s important to go to your appointments unless you or someone you live with has symptoms of Coronavirus.
*Who is eligible?
The flu vaccine is available FREE through the NHS for people who:
- have certain health conditions
- are pregnant
- receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
- frontline health or social care workers
- are 65 and over (including those who’ll be 65 by 31 March 2021)
- are in a long-stay residential care
This year, adults and children living with others who are on the NHS shielded patient list will be eligible for the flu vaccination for the first time. Speak to your pharmacist or GP to find out more.
Subject to vaccine availability, 50-64-year olds will also be eligible for the free vaccine later in the programme and will be targeted separately.
More information on eligibility is available from the NHS here. For children’s eligibility click here
The flu vaccine is your best protection from the flu and the associated complications. Ask your pharmacist or GP today if you’re eligible for a free vaccine.
Take care.
– Phil Hargreaves, Health & Wellbeing Manager
– Dan Jones, Occupational Health Adviso
