Public health reminds islanders about flu vaccine

Islanders who meet certain criteria are being sent letters reminding them they qualify for free flu vaccinations.

This includes pregnant women who can access their vaccination from maternity services.

Also eligible are children aged six months to 18 years who are part of a clinical risk group.

All children are being offered a nasal flu vaccine, a spray alternative that does not require an injection.

This includes those aged two, three, and four who have not started primary school and all school children up to Year 11.

From October the programme will be extended to people aged 65 and over and those aged 18 to 64 in a clinical risk group.

Also eligible will be those in long-term care facilities, people who are the main carer of an elderly person or a person with disabilities, close contacts of immunocompromised individuals, and frontline healthcare and social care workers.

Care home visits will be provided by GP practices.

Dr Nicola Brink, Director of Public Health, said: “The vaccination significantly reduces the chances of getting the flu, especially for those most at risk, including older adults, young children, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions.

"By reducing the number of flu cases, vaccinations also help to lower the pressure on our healthcare system during winter months, ensuring better care for everyone."

Parents and carers are asked to submit the relevant consent forms on the government website.

Any eligible adults, or parents of two or three year olds who were not offered vaccines within preschool are advised to contact their GP if they would like an appointment.

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