It’s not too late to get your free flu vaccination

As winter illnesses such as flu continue to circulate at high levels, Public Health in North Northamptonshire and West Northamptonshire Councils is recommending those who are eligible for the free flu vaccination, or whose children are, to get their dose as soon as possible.

Flu is highly contagious, anyone can catch it, and many will experience unpleasant symptoms such as a high temperature, muscle aches, headache, and sore throat. However, for vulnerable people, including older adults, young children and those with a compromised immune system, flu can lead to serious illness including phenomena, and even death.

It’s not too late to benefit from the flu vaccination’s protection. Getting vaccinated is one of the most effective ways to protect your immune system and reducing the risk of serious illness caused by the flu virus.

The vaccination is offered for free by the NHS to those at increased risk from the effects of flu. This includes:

• two and three year olds
• primary school children in reception to year 6, secondary to year 9
• people aged over 50
• those aged six months to under 49 years in a clinical at-risk group
• pregnant women
• household contacts of a person who is immunocompromised
• carers
• front-line health and social care workers and care workers

All those who are eligible for the free flu vaccination should take up the offer which will protect them, their families, and any vulnerable person they may come into contact with.

Getting vaccinated this Winter is even more important due to the increased circulation of other infections including COVID-19, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and Streptococcus A (Strep A).

Parents and guardians should ensure their children have received their flu vaccine to protect them from flu and its complications. For most children the flu vaccine will be given in the form of a nasal spray, administered by a health professional. Anyone who still needs to have a flu vaccination should contact their GP.Dr Annapurna Sen, Consultant in Health Protection for North and West Northamptonshire Councils

Eligible adults can also book their free flu vaccine online

People who are not eligible for a free vaccination are still strongly recommended to have a flu jab so they are also protected from the virus. Vaccinations are available for a small charge at many community pharmacies.