It’s not too late for a flu vaccination

With flu cases rising in the Black Country, eligible people are being urged to come forward for a flu vaccination. 

This year’s winter vaccination programme is focused on protecting those most vulnerable to flu. This includes older adults, and people with certain underlying health conditions such as heart or respiratory disease, or a weakened immune system, as they are at greater risk of illness from the virus. 

Since the roll out of the vaccination programme in October, more than 300,000 people have received a flu vaccination, however that’s just under half of those eligible. With latest data showing 826 people in hospital with flu in the first week of January in the Black Country, eligible people are being urged to come forward for a flu vaccine. 

A host of pop-up clinics have been set up across the Black Country, offering both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations for all eligible adults throughout January, with no appointment necessary. To find your nearest pop-up clinic, visit the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) website.

Flu vaccinations are also available at a range of community pharmacies. To find a pharmacy near you visit the NHS website.

Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country ICB, said: “During the winter months, we spend more time indoors or in crowded spaces, so viruses spread at a much quicker rate. If you are elderly, pregnant or have certain health conditions, flu can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

“The flu vaccine is the safest and most effective way to help protect against flu and is designed to help protect those who are most at risk from developing complications from the virus, helping to minimise hospitalisations.

“It is important to top up your protection, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year. That’s why we are asking all eligible individuals to get their flu jab as soon as possible, if they haven’t taken up the offer of getting it already.”

Flu vaccinations are available until the end of March, but it’s best to get vaccinated sooner to protect yourself during winter.

Julian Hobbs, Medical Director at The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are seeing a high number of patients in our Black Country hospitals with flu and respiratory conditions, especially people who are elderly or vulnerable, and children. 

“I would encourage people who have been invited to have their flu vaccination to take up the offer, to help give the best possible protection. The public can also play their part by using the most appropriate services for their needs over the coming weeks.

“By taking simple steps like using pharmacies for minor ailments, getting vaccinated against respiratory illnesses such as flu and COVID-19 if you’re eligible, and using NHS 111 for advice, you can help us ensure that our A&E departments are there for those who need urgent and emergency care the most.”