Health chiefs in Bolton have led by example by getting vaccinated against flu, helping protect themselves and others from the serious illness.
Bolon Council’s Executive Cabinet Member for Wellbeing, Cllr Susan Baines, and Bolton’s Director of Public Health, Dr Helen Lowey, received their jabs at the town hall on Monday and are urging others to do the same.
Vaccination dramatically reduces your chances of getting flu and spreading it to vulnerable family members, friends or colleagues who may be less able to fight off the infection.
Among the most at risk groups are the over 65s, pregnant women, young children and those with existing health conditions such as diabetes or heart trouble.
These groups, as well as people working in health and social care, are entitled to a free flu vaccination each year.
Health and social care staff in the community can get a free jab by presenting proof of ID, such as a wage slip, to a community pharmacist or their own GP.
If you care for someone, or you receive a Carer’s Allowance, ask your GP or pharmacist about a free flu vaccine.
School children from Reception to Year Six can be vaccinated against flu with a painless nasal spray via their school health programme.
The spray is also available for two and three-year-old and parents should receive a letter inviting them to make an appointment with their GP.
Anyone not entitled to a free vaccine can still get protected via their local pharmacy for around £10.
We can all play our part in stopping flu infections from spreading.
Cllr Baines, said:
“Flu is a nasty, debilitating illness that can even be fatal for those at most risk.
“Working in healthcare, I make sure to get my flu vaccination every year, and everyone should do the same.
“We can all play our part in stopping flu infections from spreading.”
Dr Lowey said:
“When it comes to flu, young children in particular are ‘super spreaders’, increasing the risk of passing the infection on to elderly relatives.
“I urge all parents to take up the offer of a free nasal spray which is a quick, easy and painless way to keep you family fit and healthy this winter.”