WITH Christmas just weeks away, now is the perfect time to protect yourself with a flu vaccination. Having it can help keep you well enough to enjoy everything you’re planning – from school plays and shopping trips, to family meals and festive fun.

Flu is already circulating locally, and cases can rise quickly as people spend more time indoors with family and friends. Getting your flu jab now is one of the simplest ways to stay well and avoid illness getting in the way of festive plans, whether that’s Christmas, winter holidays, or simply enjoying a well-earned break.

Free flu vaccinations are available to those who are at most risk of serious illness or who look after people that are. You can have a free flu jab if you:

• are 65 and over
• have a long term health condition
• are pregnant
• live in a care/nursing home
• are an unpaid carer for family or friends 
• work in frontline health or social care
• are a child aged 2-3 (flu spray available at GP practices and pharmacies), or a child in reception to Y11 (flu spray given at school or available by calling 01462 427008 if your child has missed theirs).

Why it matters:

• Flu is not just ‘a bad cold’ – it can be deadly for people with heart disease, diabetes, COPD, asthma, kidney problems, or other long-term conditions.
• Even if your health condition is well managed, flu can cause serious complications, which could lead to a stay in hospital. It can also make the symptoms of your long-term condition worse, for example causing fluctuations in the blood glucose level for people with diabetes, or triggering more frequent, or severe asthma attacks.
• Carers are also at risk – if you catch flu, both you and the person you care for could be in danger.

Dr Fiona Head, Medical Director at NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB said:

“Flu can arrive suddenly and can make people seriously unwell, especially those with long term conditions such as heart or lung disease, asthma or diabetes. Even if you usually manage your condition well, flu can trigger dangerous complications. The vaccine is quick, safe and free for those eligible. 

“The flu vaccine takes around two weeks to become fully effective, so the sooner you get it, the better your chances of staying well later in the month.  As you get ready for the festive season; decorating, planning gatherings, or organising time with family, please make your flu jab part of your preparations. It’s one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you.”