Winter flu jab plea to Wiltshire from South Western Ambulance Service
People are being urged to help protect themselves and others
Last updated 24th Oct 2021
Wiltshire's ambulance service is urging people to get their flu jab this winter to help protect themselves and others this winters.
The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) say flu is a very common and highly infectious disease caused by influenza viruses.
It can make people seriously ill - especially older adults, those with underlying health conditions, and those who are pregnant.
Health officials are concerned about the potential impact of Covid-19 and flu circulating together this winter.
Senior medics are urging people to get the flu vaccine and Covid-19 booster as soon as possible, because both viruses have the potential to cause serious illness and hospitalisation.
SWASFT colleagues are also encouraging people to get their winter vaccines to maximise their protection.
Mike, a Clinical Adviser in SWASFT’s Control Room, said:
“Vaccination is vital to protect people like me who are immunocompromised. This means I am at greater of serious complications from the flu and Covid-19.”
A report from the Academy of Medical Sciences warned respiratory illness could reach very high levels this winter, causing signficant pressure on the NHS and up to 60,000 deaths.
More than 40 million people across the UK – including people most at risk and those more likely to spread flu, such as school children – are being offered a free jab this year in the biggest flu vaccination campaign so far.
GP surgeries will contact patients eligible for the free NHS flu vaccine, or eligible patients can book an appointment at a pharmacy. Pregnant women can ask for their free flu jab at their local maternity service.
People who are not eligible for a free flu jab can pay for it privately at many pharmacies, at a cost of around £15.
Those who qualify for the Covid-19 booster should wait to be contacted about it.