A local health leader is urging people living in York and North Yorkshire to get the flu vaccine this winter to protect themselves and others in their community.

In the Vale of York, at least 65% of the eligible cohort have already taken up the offer of a free jab, but concerns that this year could see a high rate of flu infections means that it is more important than ever that people are vaccinated.

The NHS has expanded the vaccination programme, making the number of those eligible for the free vaccine almost double that of previous years. Elderly people, those with underlying health conditions and pregnant women are all included in the programme, and can get it from their GP or local pharmacy.

Paid or unpaid carers are also eligible as part of the programme and should identify themselves as having caring responsibilities to their GP practice. If a carer becomes unwell, this could impact negatively on the person they are caring for, meaning it is vital that they are vaccinated.

Paula Middlebrook, Deputy Chief Nurse at NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), said: "Flu is not just like having a cold – it can be really serious, especially for vulnerable people such as the elderly, people with long-term health conditions and pregnant women.

"It's not too late to get protected against the flu. There are many benefits to vaccination and preventing flu is more important than ever this year. We can each play a part in reducing illness, protecting each other and shielding NHS resources over the winter months."

For healthy adults, flu is typically unpleasant and inconvenient, but they will usually begin to recover within 2 to 7 days. Those who catch the flu should rest, drink plenty of fluids and take appropriate pain relief, such as paracetamol.

However, flu can have serious health impacts for people who are at-risk and because of this the flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to people who:

• are aged 50 and over
• have certain health conditions
• are pregnant
• are in long-stay residential care
• are paid or unpaid carers
• live with someone who is more likely to get infections
• are frontline health or social care workers

People who do not fall under any of the eligible categories for a free vaccine can pay to be vaccinated at a local pharmacy. More information about the programme is available online at valeofyorkccg.nhs.uk/flu-programme.

Those getting the flu jab can help by arriving on time for their appointment, not too early and not too late. Wearing short sleeves will also help keep the flu clinics moving whilst following social distancing advice.

In addition to the flu, COVID-19 is still in circulation and patients, especially those who are in at-risk groups, should have the booster vaccine if they have not already had it.

People aged 40 and over are able to book their booster appointment if it has been more than 5 months (152 days) since their second dose by visiting nhs.uk/book-covid-booster or calling 119.

Some patients may be offered both the booster vaccine and the flu vaccine, which is safe to have at the same time.

< Back to all news stories