Every year thousands of people die from the flu. The best way to keep yourself and your loved ones protected from flu is by getting a flu vaccine. Many people are eligible for a free flu vaccine as they are more at risk of getting the illness.
People eligible for a free flu vaccine are:
- adults over 65
- pregnant women
- children aged 2 and 3
- pupils in reception class and school years 1 to 7
- people with long-term health conditions (including asthma, COPD and cardiovascular issues)
- front-line health and social care staff
- people who live with someone who was on the NHS shielded list
We at Public Health Dorset are encouraging parents and carers of 2 or 3 year olds to get their children of those ages vaccinated. Once again it’s free. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about getting an appointment for your child to be vaccinated. The children’s flu vaccine is given as a harm-free nasal spray.
In Dorset we are also seeing a lower uptake of pregnant women and those who have long-term health conditions getting their flu jabs. Again we want anyone (even if they have never had flu before) who fits these categories to go and get their jab from their GP, pharmacist or midwife.
