RESIDENTS are encouraged to have their flu and COVID-19 vaccines to help protect themselves from illness this winter.
Thousands of people die from flu every winter and people can still get very ill or die from COVID-19. Catching both viruses over winter increases the risk of serious illness even further.
Vaccines are the best protection and eligible people who can get both vaccines through the NHS should have been contacted by their GP surgery.
That includes everyone aged 65 and above, pregnant women, care home residents, people aged six months old or above with certain health conditions, frontline health and care staff, unpaid carers and household contacts of those at higher risk.
The flu vaccine is also offered to most children including all aged two and three years old and school-aged children from reception to year 11, as well as those with underlying health conditions. The children’s flu vaccine is usually given as a quick and painless spray up the nose.
Adult flu vaccinations can be booked now through your GP practice or local pharmacy.
Cllr Eleanor Wills, Tameside Council Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: “In the face of the looming threat posed by flu and COVID-19, it is imperative that we take proactive measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
“For some, these illnesses may be merely unpleasant, but for others, especially those with specific health vulnerabilities, older individuals, and expectant mothers, they can prove to be perilous, even life-threatening.
“Our strongest shield against these adversaries remains vaccination and our local NHS services are providing vital support for groups across the borough.
“If you’ve received an invite, or fit the eligibility criteria, I encourage you to book an appointment as soon as possible by following the information on the Tameside Council webpage below.”
School-aged children will get their flu vaccine through schools and community venues, and those aged two and three years old or with certain health conditions can get the flu vaccine at their GP surgery.
You can find out the latest information about both vaccines online: www.tameside.gov.uk/publichealth/Vaccinations/winter