Vulnerable Milton Keynes residents urged to get free flu jab

The flu vaccination will not protect against coronavirus, however, those at higher risk from coronavirus are also at higher risk of developing complications from flu.

Flu can cause severe illness, especially for people with underlying health conditions. GP practices and pharmacies are continuing to run flu clinics during the current national lockdown and patients are being urged to attend clinics when invited.

Dr Sanhita Chakrabarti, clinical lead and lead for the flu programme for Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Clinical Commissioning Groups said the flu vaccine is safe and effective.

She said: "It will prevent serious health complications associated with the flu and can save lives. Anyone who is invited by their GP to have the free flu jab should not think twice about having it. Your GP and local pharmacy will still be open during lockdown to provide flu vaccinations to both adults and children.”

Those eligible for a free flu vaccine are:

• Aged 65 and over (including those who’ll be 65 by March 31 2021)

• Have certain health conditions such as Diabetes, Heart Problems, Liver Disease and Kidney Disease

• Are pregnant

• Are in a long-stay residential care

• Receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick

• Live with someone who’s at high risk from coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list)

• Frontline health or social care workers

Councillor Hannah O’Neill said: “Flu vaccination is extremely important to further protect those at most risk from poor health. As we approach the winter, we need to do everything we can to prevent avoidable illness and reduce the strain on local health services. If you are invited to attend a flu clinic, I would urge you to do so.”

To maintain social distancing, flu clinics will be operating differently this year. GP practices will let patients know how they will be delivering flu clinics before their appointment.

More information on the flu vaccination is available here https://www.blmkccg.nhs.uk/your-health/seasonal-flu/