Brent health chiefs urge vulnerable residents to get the flu jab

Brent’s health chiefs are urging residents to protect themselves this winter so as to protect others by getting a flu jab.

The Stay Well This Winter campaign (SWTW) campaign has launched with extensions to vaccinate more children.

Year 3 pupils in school can now be vaccinated as its believed children in general are most likely to spread flu to others so targeting them protects the wider community.

Parents of children in school years one to three are asked to give permission for their child to receive the free nasal spray vaccination at school.

Children aged two to four can get the vaccination from their GP.

Adults with long-term health conditions, pregnant women and those over 65 who are at risk will also be offered a flu jab as will residents of long-stay care homes and carers.

Dr Ethie Kong, chairwoman of Brent Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “The flu vaccination offers protection for millions of people most at risk including young children, the elderly and those with long-term health conditions.

“For most people flu is an unpleasant illness, but for those who are most vulnerable, it can be extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.

“If you need a free flu vaccination, contact your GP, pharmacist or midwife for more details.”