Two simple things you can do to help stay healthy this winter are getting your flu vaccine and your COVID-19 vaccination. It is especially important to be vaccinated if you are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill.
Who can get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines?
Almost all of our clients, many of the people they live with, and all of our staff should be able to access these vaccinations free of charge through the NHS. You are usually eligible if you are:
- Aged 65 or over
- A frontline health or social care worker
- Living with certain health conditions or a learning disability
- Living with someone who has a weakened immune system
How to get vaccinated
If you are eligible, you can:
- Contact your GP surgery to book an appointment
- Find a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination (if you are aged 18 or over)
- Book online or through the NHS App (if you are aged 18 or over)
- Go to a walk-in vaccination site
If you are 65 or over, you are also eligible for the pneumococcal vaccine, which helps protect against pneumonia.
Who is most at risk?
People aged 65 and older are at higher risk from cold weather, as are those with a long-term health condition. If you feel unwell, get medical help sooner rather than later — the earlier you get advice, the sooner you are likely to feel better.
Keeping well through the cold
- Keep warm. Try to keep the rooms you use to at least 18°C, and keep bedroom windows closed at night.
- Think ahead about shopping. Pavements and roads can be icy. Make sure loved ones are stocked up with enough food and prescription medicines for a few days so they don't have to go out in bad weather.
- Dress for the cold. If going out is unavoidable, encourage shoes with good grip and a scarf to protect against cold air and reduce the risk of chest infections.
You can unknowingly pass on flu or COVID-19 without any symptoms. Protecting yourself also protects the people close to you and those you care for — so it is well worth getting vaccinated as soon as you can.
