Flu jab call to Staffordshire residents
People in Staffordshire are being encouraged to prevent hospital stays by getting their flu jab ahead of the colder months.
Coughs, colds and other viruses spread quicker in winter when people spend more time indoors together. This year’s flu jab is being made available to those most at risk, including children, pregnant women, older people, care home residents and people with underlying health conditions.
Chiefs say getting a flu jab will make symptoms less severe, with people less likely to need hospital care as a result.
Parents can also access flu vaccines, which is usually a nasal spray, for their children aged two to 16 years old.Two-to-three-year-olds can get their vaccine at their GP surgery or at community pharmacies. School immunisation teams will also be offering flu vaccinations to all school-aged children at school or community clinics if they miss the school visit. Pregnant women should speak to their midwife to find out more.
Councillor Marie Shortland, cabinet support Member for public health and integrated care at Staffordshire County Council, said: “Working in the care sector, I know how poorly people can get, which is why I try to have my flu jab every year. We must do what we can to keep people out of hospital this winter and ease the pressure on our NHS.
“Getting the flu jab is quick and easy, so make sure you take up the offer when you are invited by your GP. You can have your flu jab at a number of different places and there’s lots of information on the NHS website.”
The NHS National Booking System is now open for all eligible people to book their winter flu vaccinations. Those eligible for the flu vaccine aged 18 years or over can also book an appointment at a pharmacy online, on the NHS App or by calling 119. "
