Medics push for vaccinations amidst flu surge
BBCAs NHS hospitals struggle to cope with the rising demand this winter, healthcare professionals have urged people to get vaccinated.
Pop-up clinics have been set up in the Black Country in an attempt to encourage eligible people to come forward for their winter flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.
Speaking at a clinic in Wolverhampton, pharmacist Monisha Ahmed said the number of people coming to be vaccinated was "slowly becoming smaller and smaller".
"We've found a lot of people are under the impression that the Covid virus doesn't exist anymore and it's slowly going away," she added.
The number of sick people is also putting a strain on GP surgeries, according to Dr Charlotte Hart from Shrewsbury.
She said: "We're seeing a lot of respiratory illnesses, some of which is flu, or other viral illnesses, but certainly practices and winter illness clinic, they're all very busy.
She said the surge in cases reminded her of when the pandemic unfolded.
"It takes me back to the early days of Covid a little bit where you think: 'Oh gosh, what more is still to come'".
Dr Mohit Mandiratta said he understood people's "vaccine apathy" after a few turbulent years following the pandemic, but to ensure safety and a functioning NHS staying up to date with vaccinations was important.
"We want to make sure everybody who is eligible gets a vaccine, it's the best way to protect yourself this winter.
"Certainly there is hesitancy, we've heard about misinformation but I think the important thing is, if you are eligible have one and if you're not sure speak to a trusted healthcare professional."
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