Protect yourself and our NHS with vital flu vaccine
Following the critical incidents declared at the county’s hospitals, people in Staffordshire are being reminded to get their flu jab ahead of the Christmas break, along with the steps they can take to stay well and alternatives to visiting A&E.
Coughs and colds are circulating widely and spread more easily in winter when people spend more time indoors together. Getting the flu jab can help people stay healthy, prevent hospital stays and reduce pressure on already extremely busy NHS services.
The flu jab is available to those most at risk, including children, pregnant women, older adults, care home residents and people with underlying health conditions. Getting a flu jab can reduce severity of some symptoms, making it less likely for people to need hospital care as a result. Other steps people can take to avoid illness disrupting their Christmas plans include washing hands regularly, catching sneezes in a tissue and considering staying at home if they feel unwell.
Marie Shortland, Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care at Staffordshire County Council, is urging people to take up their flu jab when offered to them.
Marie said: “Flu can be extremely serious and even life-threatening in some circumstances, so it’s vital we all do what we can to protect ourselves and keep people out of hospital.
“Both Royal Stoke University Hospital and County Hospital, Stafford have been under severe sustained pressure for the last week. Please only use A&E in a serious or life-threatening emergency and consider alternatives like calling 111, visiting a pharmacy or a minor injuries unit instead.
“I’ve already had my flu jab this year and I would urge others to do the same when offered to them. It’s quick and easy and can be done at a number of different places and there’s lots of information on the NHS website."
Matthew Missen, Consultant in Public Health for NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board, said: “Since October we have seen flu circulating at levels higher than we have seen in recent years and in the past two weeks we have seen an increase in people severely unwell with flu and needing hospitalisation. That’s why it’s so important for everyone eligible for the flu vaccine to get it now, before socialising with friends and family over Christmas.
“Each year we provide treatment to large numbers of older people and people with long-term health conditions who become severely unwell with flu. Vaccination provides the safest and most effective protection, and many of these hospital admissions could be prevented through vaccination.
“If you’re eligible, please arrange your flu vaccine as part of your preparations for the festive period. It’s a simple step that can help keep you and your loved ones well throughout December and beyond.”
The NHS National Booking System is open for all eligible people to book their winter flu vaccinations. Those eligible for the flu vaccine aged 18 years or over can book a flu appointment at a pharmacy online, in the NHS App or by calling 119.
Parents with children who are aged 2 or 3 years old can access flu vaccines, which are usually a nasal spray, at their GP surgery or at community pharmacies. Pregnant women are encouraged to speak to their GP about the offer of flu and RSV vaccines this winter, which protect them as well as their babies from potential complications.
Flu can cause a high temperature, sore throat, cough, headache and tiredness. Most people recover at home within a week by resting, keeping well-hydrated and using simple pain relief such as paracetamol. While flu usually gets better on its own, some people, including older adults, pregnant women and those with long-term conditions, may be at higher risk of complications and should seek advice if they are worried. If you need further support, you can contact NHS 111, your GP practice, or visit a local walk-in centre for help.
For guidance on flu symptoms and flu vaccination, visit the NHS website: nhs.uk/conditions/flu/
