Flu is a contagious infection that can lead to hospitalisation and sometimes even death. It is more dangerous than a typical cold and seriously affects the well-being of both children and adults. Getting a flu jab is the best protection against the flu and its potentially fatal complications. Are you in need of a flu vaccine? Keep reading to find out about the NHS flu vaccine eligibility in the West Midlands.
NHS flu vaccine eligibility in the West Midlands
The flu vaccine is reliable and safe. The NHS makes it available every year to help protect people who are at risk of experiencing severe flu symptoms.
Anyone can get the flu vaccine through the NHS if they:
- Are 50 years or older
- Are social care workers who can’t receive the jab through an occupational health scheme at work
- Have particular medical conditions
- Are pregnant
- Live with an individual who is more likely to contract a serious infection because of a compromised immune system, like someone who has HIV, is having some treatments for cancer, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, or has had a transplant.
- Are in long-stay residential care
- Receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for a disabled or older person who may be at risk if they become sick
- Work as frontline healthcare workers
Why is it important to get the NHS flu vaccine in the West Midlands this winter?
There’s an array of reasons why it’s vital to get your flu vaccine every year. Here are some of the reasons why:
- You can avoid getting ill by getting vaccinated against the flu, especially if you have a chronic illness.
- Reports indicate that for those who have received the flu vaccine but still contract the flu, it lessens the severity of the sickness.
- Receiving the flu vaccine lowers the likelihood of hospitalisation.
- The vaccination protects expectant mothers both throughout pregnancy and after birth.
- It can stop children from dying as a result of serious flu complications.
- By receiving a flu vaccination, you also safeguard those close to you.
What can I do to prevent catching the flu?
By taking into account the suggestions and tips provided below, you can learn about the actions you should take to avoid the flu and stop the transmission of viruses.
Avoid close contact
Ensure that you stay away from ill people if possible. When you’re sick, keep your distance from others to avoid infecting them.
Stay at home when you get ill
Avoid going to school, work, or running errands if you’re unwell. The likelihood of spreading the flu to others will reduce as a result.
Cover your nose and mouth
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue every time you cough or sneeze. It might keep your loved ones from getting the flu.
Wash your hands regularly
You can stay healthy by regularly washing your hands. If soap and water are not an option, try an alcohol-based sanitiser.
How can I ease my flu symptoms?
There are various methods to lessen how bad your flu symptoms are:
- Stay indoors and get enough rest
- Use saline nose drops
- Sit in a steamy bathroom
- Use painkillers to treat aches and fever
- Drink a lot of fluids
- Run the humidifier
- Try a lozenge
- Take care of the cough using cough medicine
Should I still be worried about Covid this winter?
Over the coming months, there is a higher chance that COVID-19 and the flu will both be widespread. You should get vaccinated, take precautions to protect yourself as well as others, and stay home if you become ill for a safer winter. You should also be aware of the symptoms and who is at risk.
Find out your NHS flu vaccine eligibility in the West Midlands
Book your appointment with Knights Pharmacy today to find out your NHS flu vaccine eligibility in the West Midlands and to get vaccinated. You can also shop online at Chemist.net for cold and flu treatments.
This post was written on behalf of Knights Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor
