WESTBURY Group Practice has announced their plans for this year’s flu vaccinations – which have been described as “more important than ever”.
This year, more people will be eligible for a free flu vaccine as part of the government’s “most comprehensive flu vaccination programme in UK history”, which they say will double the amount of vaccines administered from 15 million to 30 million people.
And with a possible second wave of coronavirus set to impact on health services, Public Health England says it is now “more important than ever” to receive the vaccination in order to avoid a double-hit to the NHS.
Westbury Group Practice – which manages both White Horse Health Centre and Bratton Surgery – is hosting two drop in flu vaccine clinics for anyone aged 65 and over.
About the flu vaccination clinics, Westbury Group Practice said, “Are you aged 65 years or over, or born before 1.4.1956? If so, you are eligible for a flu vaccine.
“To receive your flu vaccine, please attend one of our drop in flu vaccination clinics on Saturday 12th September 9am – 2pm or Saturday 26th September 9am – 2pm.
You can find out more from the advert on page 11 which also includes a vaccination slip to take with you – or from the practices’ website – www. westburygp.co.uk
“It is very important that you have your flu vaccine this year and we would like to reassure you that social distancing measures will be strictly adhered to throughout the clinics.
“We ask that you wear a mask when attending the health centre and follow social distancing guidance. Please only bring someone with you, if you are unable to attend alone. If you have a high temperature, cough or loss of taste or smell, please do not attend for a flu vaccine. Alternatively, you can make an appointment for your flu vaccine by contacting the health centre.
“Each year the NHS prepares for the unpredictability of flu. Flu is more than just a common cold. It is highly infectious disease with symptoms that come on very quickly
“For most healthy people, flu is usually an unpleasant but self-limiting disease with recovery generally within a week. However, it can also lead to hospitalisation, permanent disability or even death in otherwise healthy individuals.
“There is also a particular risk of severe illness from catching flu for: · older people; · the very young · pregnant women · those with underlying disease, such as chronic respiratory or cardiac disease · those who are immunosuppressed.
“Additionally this year people are recommended to have the flu vaccine if they are: · the main carer of an older or disabled person · a household contact of someone on the Shielded Patients List for Covid-19.
“Having the flu vaccine this year is even more important than before. Although having the flu vaccine won’t prevent you from getting Covid-19, protecting ourselves from flu will protect the most vulnerable. Those who are vulnerable to Covid19 are also vulnerable to flu.
“The practice is committed to protecting our practice population from flu. We are providing socially distanced drop-in clinics and bookable appointments at the surgery.”
