Did you know that you can still get your flu jab? Uptake of the vaccine has been lower than the national average in Birmingham and Solihull, so residents are being urged to get theirs before they become unwell.
Flu vaccines are still available, so anyone who hasn’t had one is urged to visit their GP or local pharmacy. This is especially important for at-risk groups, including children aged 2-3, over-65s, pregnant women and those with a long-term health condition. Flu is dangerous for people in these groups, and they are entitled to receive their jab for free.
This year’s vaccine has also been described as a ‘good’ match for the common strains of flu that are circulating this year.
Dr Richard Mendelsohn, a local GP and Chief Medical Officer of NHS Birmingham and Solihull Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: “It’s great news that this season’s flu jab is a strong match for the strains of flu that we are seeing.
It is not too late for local people to have a flu jab, and make sure that they avoid the flu this winter. It’s a nasty illness, and dangerous for those who are in at-risk groups, so we want to do all we can to help local people avoid becoming unwell.”
Solihull Council’s Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care and Health, Councillor Karen Grinsell, commented: “Even though flu season is upon us, it’s not too late to have your vaccine. It’s free for those most at risk and can prevent you from getting seriously ill. Don’t delay, ask your GP or local pharmacy and get protected as soon as possible.”
Birmingham Council’s Public Health Service Lead, Chris Baggott, added: “Flu is still circulating, and people are still getting ill, so it’s important that everyone who can get the free NHS flu jab knows it’s not too late to speak to their GP or local pharmacist and book an appointment. It’s important that people protect themselves and those they look after, if they are a carer or work in social care.”
