I am urging local people to get their flu jab and find out more about how they can stay well this winter. Here is some useful advice from the NHS –
* It’s really important that if you are a pensioner, or suffer from a long term condition, or have children between 2 and 7 that you find out about to stay well this winter.
* If you have older relatives or elderly neighbours remember to check that they have had a flu jab and keep an eye out for them.
The Stay Well This Winter campaign being run by Public Health England and NHS England aims to raise awareness of the vulnerability of the elderly and those with long-term health conditions at winter among family, friends and carers. Advice includes:
* If you suffer from a long term health condition such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), an umbrella term used to describe a number of conditions including emphysema and chronic bronchitis; diabetes; heart or kidney disease; are aged 65 or over; or are pregnant, get the free flu vaccine now
* If you’re a parent of a child aged 2 -7, ensure your child is vaccinated against flu. Children aged 2, 3 and 4 can get the vaccination from their GP. Parents of children in school years 1, 2 and 3 are asked to give permission for their child to receive the free nasal spray vaccination at school
* Seek immediate advice from your pharmacist at the first sign of winter illnesses, before it gets too serious
* Heat your home to at least 18°C (65°F), if you can
* Keep an eye out for elderly relatives and neighbours
For further information about how you and your family can stay well this winter