Don’t put off the flu vaccination – it’s free because you need it
People who are the most vulnerable to flu are being urged to get their free vaccination ahead of the winter period when the virus is most common.
Flu is a highly infectious disease and can lead to serious complications if you have a long-term health condition like asthma, COPD, bronchitis, emphysema or diabetes; if you have heart, kidney or liver disease; if you have a neurological condition like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease or Parkinson’s; or if you have Alzheimer’s, a learning disability or had a stroke. Flu on top of health conditions like these can easily develop into something very serious and could land you in hospital. People with these and other long-term health conditions are eligible for a free flu jab through their GP or pharmacist.
Other people who are eligible for the free flu vaccine include: adults over 65, residents of long-stay care homes, pregnant women, children aged 2 and 3, as well as pupils in reception class and school years 1 to 4.
And if you are the main carer of an older or disabled person, you may also be eligible for the free flu jab – speak to your GP.
If you are eligible for the flu vaccine get it now – it’s free because you need it. Contact your GP, pharmacist or midwife to get the flu jab.
Flu vaccination is part of the Stay Well This Winter campaign, a joint initiative from NHS England and Public Health England, to help the public ward off common winter illnesses.
For more details including leaflets in alternative formats on how to help you and your family to stay well this winter, visit nhs.uk/staywell