06/10/2020 - Permalink

Protect yourself and your community by getting the flu vaccine

Related topics: Coronavirus / Health / Partner organisations

It is more important than ever to get the flu vaccine this year. With coronavirus circulating, Shropshire Council is encouraging residents to help reduce their risks by getting the flu vaccination.

Flu jabs help to protect the most vulnerable people from getting flu, and the vaccine is free to anyone who falls into one of these categories:

  • If you are 65 years old or over
  • If you are pregnant
  • If you have certain medical conditions
  • If you receive a carer’s allowance, or you’re the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill
  • If you live with someone who’s at high risk of COVID-19 (on the NHS shielded patient list), or you expect to be with them on most days over winter.

Over 50s may get offered a free vaccine after the above higher groups are completed and vaccines are available.

Dean Carroll, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for adult social care, public health and climate change, said:

 “Flu is not a minor illness by any stretch of the imagination and the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the virus.

“I would encourage people to get the vaccine this autumn before the flu season peaks in the winter. Having the vaccine will reduce the risk of catching flu or spreading it to others. It will also help us protect our vital key workers in the NHS and social care.”

Shropshire Council continues to offer the free vaccine to its frontline staff who work with the most vulnerable people in the community.

Dean Carroll added:

“As well as getting the flu vaccine, there are other ways to keep you and your loved ones safe – continue to socially distance, wash your hands, wear face coverings, and by sticking to the rule of six when meeting socially in groups, indoors or outdoors.”

Those who fall into the vulnerable groups are eligible for the free vaccine at their GP practice or local pharmacy. Anyone who is not eligible for the free vaccine can pay for it at their local pharmacy. Find out more at www.nhs.uk/staywell