LIVERPOOL’s Mayor and Lord Mayor are backing the annual flu vaccination campaign.
Joe Anderson and Councillor Roz Gladden have had their jabs – and are urging residents who are eligible to do the same.
It is also available for all children aged 2, 3 and 4 as a nasal spray through GP practices.
All parents and guardians of children aged 2,3 and 4 are encouraged to contact their GP now to get the nasal spray for their children. The vaccination consists of a spray up each nostril and is quick, easy and effective way to protect children from flu and stop it spreading. The spray is available for children in school years 1, 2 and 3 through school.
Mayor Anderson said: “As well as making sure that people are fit and healthy this winter, we also want to reduce the impact on our A&E services and avoid them being packed with people with flu.
“I’m asking as many as possible to go and get their flu shot, like I have. If you’re eligible for the free flu vaccine, don’t put it off, get it now, before we get outbreaks of flu.”
The Lord Mayor said: “Flu can be very nasty and sadly can be a killer for some people. I got my flu jab because I want to stay fit and well and I would encourage everyone who is eligible for a free flu vaccine to get it now. It could well save your life.”
Dr Sandra Davies, Liverpool’s Director of Public Health, said: “Flu can be serious and is unpredictable. If you have a long-term health condition, the effects of flu can make it worse, even if the condition is well-managed and you normally feel well.
“We’re particularly keen to get the message across to pregnant women that the flu vaccine is important to protect them and their baby, and is safe for pregnant women at any time in pregnancy. Pregnancy naturally weakens the body’s immune system. The flu vaccine reduces the risk of complications of flu like premature birth and pneumonia, and helps to protect babies from flu right up to their first few months of life.
“We are pleased with the response to the flu vaccination campaign so far this year. People seem to be taking note of the message that it is important to get vaccinated before flu starts to circulate, and we have seen an increase in the numbers of people getting their vaccine early.
“I advise all pregnant women and anyone else eligible for a free flu vaccine – if you have not had the chance to get your vaccine yet, don’t put it off any longer. Contact your GP now to get vaccinated. The free flu vaccine is also available through many pharmacies.”
For further information on the flu vaccination, please contact your GP surgery. Alternatively visit: www.nhs.uk/flu
