As part of the expanded flu vaccination programme this winter, Islanders aged 50-64 are now able to get the flu vaccination for free – and it’s not too late to get the jab this winter.
It’s important that anyone who is recommended to have a flu jab this year should get one. This is to reduce the risk of people catching flu and coronavirus at the same time which can be very dangerous.
Everyone in the 50-64 age group is being contacted to confirm they are eligible, and GPs and pharmacies are arranging appointments. If people have not already been invited by their GP they can also be vaccinated at a community pharmacy. More details of how to locate the nearest participating pharmacy along with their opening hours are available online at https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy.
Vaccinations will continue throughout the remainder of the winter season and are separate to the COVID-19 vaccination programme currently being rolled out. In the future, it has been suggested that people may receive an annual combined flu/COVID jab.
If you are in an at-risk group, you remain a priority for vaccination and should contact your GP or pharmacy as soon as possible for your free flu vaccine.
Dr Vaughan Lewis, Medical Director for NHS England and NHS Improvement’s South East region, said:
“We know that lots of people are keen to have the Covid vaccine as soon as possible and we are working hard to ensure this happens but while you are waiting you can also help to protect yourself from respiratory illness by having a flu jab.
“The flu jab is free for all eligible groups including for the first time this year, those aged between 50 and 64. Flu can be a really nasty illness and the prospect of having Covid and Flu together could be really dangerous so please book an appointment to have your flu jab as soon as possible at either your local pharmacy of GP surgery”.
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I shall wait and ask them to mix the two. Only feel one prick then. Simples.
What about the coronavirus vaccine?That’s more important than the flu jab!!!!