Residents in Bromley are being urged to get the flu jab by the Council’s Public Health Team.
This advice is especially important for those who are most at risk, including the over 65s, with vaccines now also available for 50 to 64-year-olds who are not in a clinical at-risk group. This year, those living in a household where someone was asked to shield in the early lockdown are also entitled to get a free flu jab.
The flu jab is available from GP practices and local pharmacists in Bromley and surrounding boroughs. For those planning to get their flu jab at a pharmacy, it makes sense to book an appointment to be sure they have the vaccine at the time they attend. This can be done online by visiting my vaccinations website or contact your local pharmacy, either in person or by phone.
Dr Nada Lemic, Director of Public Health in Bromley says: “This year the flu vaccine is more important than ever, to help reduce transmission of flu and to protect you from getting flu. You may be offered it for the first time this year and I would encourage you to take up the offer to protect yourself, your family, and your friends.
“Each year flu kills many people and hospitalises many thousands of residents. If you are in one of the at-risk groups, please get your free flu vaccination. It is vital you have one as it will help protect you and those around you from what can be a severe and sometimes fatal illness, which could lead to hospital treatment.”
This flu vaccination will not provide protection from Covid-19 itself, however, adults at high risk from flu are also most at risk from Covid-19 and the free vaccine is more important than ever to help protect against this double threat this winter.
Many more people are eligible to have the free flu vaccine this winter, including over 65s, pregnant women, those with long term health conditions, and those living in a ‘shielding’ household. Children aged 2-3 can get a free nasal spray at their GP practice, and school aged children up to year 7 will be offered the vaccine at school.
Ask your pharmacist or GP if you are eligible for a free flu vaccine. For more information about the flu and who is eligible for a free jab, visit: www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine/
Staff working in Bromley’s health and care services are getting vaccinated to help protect themselves and the people they care for. Please stay well this winter and help your local NHS by getting your flu jab.