Birmingham carers are being urged to become flu fighters this winter – to protect themselves and the people they care for. Director of Public Health, Dr Adrian Phillips, is encouraging all carers to check with their GP to see if they’re eligible for a free flu jab to reduce the risk to their own health and the person they care for.
Every winter, the vast majority of unpaid carers miss out on a free flu jab, despite the fact that they are entitled to request one.
If you receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill, speak to your GP or pharmacist about having a free flu jab along with the person you care for.
Dr Phillips said: “As a carer, you want to do everything you can to help protect those in your care. So if you're entitled to a free flu jab, please take the opportunity. It's free because you need it.
“The alternative can be disastrous. If you're struck down by the flu and become too ill to care, there may be no-one else who can step in to help. You could also pass on the virus and make the person you care for seriously ill, especially if they have a lowered immune system.
"Getting flu when you already have a long-term condition can lead to serious complications, and it can even be a killer.”
For more information about flu jabs for carers, visit Carers UK at https://www.carersuk.org/help-and-advice/health/looking-after-your-health/flu-jabs
