Call to take up free flu jab in Shropshire
Health and social care teams across Shropshire, and Telford & Wrekin are reminding those eligible to take up their free flu jab.
Flu is a highly infectious disease and is different to the common cold. Symptoms include fever, chills, headaches, aching muscles and joint pain and fatigue.
The free flu vaccination is offered to those who are at increased risk from the effects of flu.
Those eligible include over 65s; those aged six months to under 65 years in clinical risk groups; pregnant women; people living in a residential or nursing home; children aged 2-3 (on August 31, 2019) and all primary school aged children.
Rob Gittins, Shropshire Council’s deputy cabinet member for public health, said: “The flu vaccine is the best defence we have against what can be a serious and even fatal illness.
“It’s really important for those who are eligible for a free flu vaccination to take up this offer and it’s not too late to get vaccinated.
“No one wants to be ill over the festive period. If you are eligible for the flu vaccine, contact your GP, pharmacist or midwife now, to protect yourself this winter – it’s free because you need it.”
Vulnerable
Councillor Andy Burford, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet member for health and social care, added: “Flu not a minor illness by any stretch of the imagination. On average 8,000 people a year die because of flu.
“If you are eligible for a free flu vaccine please make sure you get vaccinated. You are protecting not just yourself but other vulnerable members of the community as well.”
Aside from having your flu vaccine, the best way to prevent the spread of flu is to practice good hand hygiene.
Catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue, throw the tissue away and wash your hands.
If you think you have flu, stay home and rest until you feel better.
Pharmacists can give advice and NHS 111 is also available.
Visit nhs.uk/fluvaccine for more information.
