It's that flu jab time of year again!


It's that flu jab time of year again! 
Flu jabs are now here.  They are coming in batches so best check what is available. THERE ARE TWO DIFFERENT SORTS OF JAB THIS YEAR!


 Currently we have stock for the over 65 AND under 65 age groups. 

 They are free of charge and are recommended for all those over 65 years , all pregnant women (at whatever stage), those under 65 (including children over 6m) in certain high risk groups - see below - and you may also qualify if you are a carer for a vulnerable person or receive the carer's allowance or live in a long stay care facility. 

 Last year was pretty bad, so don't delay!

 This year is a little more complex in view of the 2 different flu vaccines - the 'Trivalent' which works best for those over 65yrs (is is 'adjuvanted' meaning it has an extra booster built into it in view of the rather more lethargic immune system as we get older) and the 'Quadrivalent' for those at risk in the younger ages. These younger patieents get an extra Type B flu strain as they are more susceptible to this than the older population. So this is all based on research into effectiveness..

 Also, due to manufacturing limitations, deliveries will be in batches between September and November, so sometimes we might be short of one or other of the vaccines for a little while (though we have ordered plenty in total).

Health workers and others deemed to be at risk will be vaccinated under their Occupational Health service.

At risk groups include those with: 
  • Chronic respiratory disease (incl. serious asthma requiring regular preventative treatment, COPD, children admitted to hospital with respiratory problems) 
  • Chronic heart disease
  • Chronic liver disease (incl. cirrhosis)
  • Chronic neurological disease (such as MS, stroke) 
  • Diabetes 
  • Decreased immunity (such as steroids, chemotherapy, lack of spleen) 
  • All pregnant women
  • Morbid obesity (BMI -Body Mass Index-  of 40 or more)
  • Those in long stay residential homes or care facilities
2-9 year old children will also be offered the nasal flu vaccine. Those aged 2 or 3 on 31.8.18 will be offered this nasal vaccine here if not already in school. Children in reception class and school years 1 - 5  will be vaccinated at school. 

Click here for a leaflet on this year's programme with useful answers to common questions.


 Also check out the detailed NHS site 

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