Somerset Council is reminding eligible residents to get their flu vaccination if they haven’t already.
The best time to get a flu jab is in the autumn or early winter, before flu starts circulating widely. This year we are already seeing flu cases.
Flu is far more than just a bad cold. For some, it can increase the risk of developing serious lung and airway infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse.
Councillor Graham Oakes, Somerset Council’s Executive Member for Public Health, Climate Change and Environment, recently had his flu vaccination and said:
Protecting yourself means protecting others. With flu already circulating, now is the perfect time for those who are eligible. It’s quick, safe and helps stop the spread to those most at risk.
Flu spreads easily and in some cases can lead to hospitalisation, or in some cases, even death. The flu virus is constantly evolving, which is why it’s recommended to get vaccinated each year.
The NHS will usually let eligible residents know when they can book an appointment. Residents should speak to the their GP practice if they have not been contacted, but think they’re eligible.
The NHS recommends flu vaccination for people who are:
- pregnant
- aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025
- children with certain long-term health conditions (aged 6 months to less than 18 years)
- primary school aged children (from reception to Year 6)
- secondary school aged children (from Year 7 to Year 11)
- all children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to under 18 years
- aged 65 years and over
- aged 18 to under 65 with certain long-term health conditions
- care home residents
- carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person
- living with people who are immunocompromised
- frontline health and social care workers
The vaccine is offered from October for these groups because flu typically peaks in December or January, and getting vaccinated from October will provide optimal protection during the highest risk period.
Further information about Flu and the vaccination is available from the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/
Eligible residents can book a flu jab through their GP, local pharmacy or national booking system. Frontline health and social care workers should show their ID at a participating pharmacy or drop-in clinic to get their free vaccine.
