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A LOCAL nurse has encouraged those eligible to get the flu vaccine as it is “more important now than ever” during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Staff at local surgeries are gearing up to hold their flu clinics ahead for their busiest winter yet.
The uptake in the flu vaccine is expected to soar this year amid the pandemic as the government plans to double the number of people who receive the influenza jab.
Patients aged over 65, children aged two or more who are not yet at school, patients living with a long-term medical condition and pregnant women are encouraged to get the vaccine.
Patients who have been shielding during the Covid lockdown and those who live with them can also get the flu vaccine this year.
Carol Sproule, senior practice nurse, has urged people to come along to the flu clinics and protect themselves against the flu this winter.
Ms Sproule said, “It is paramount that we get a big turn out to take up the vaccine.
“If people get the flu, as well as the high risk of Covid, they will be much sicker so those eligible need to get the vaccine.
“Anyone who has been shielding and anyone in that household can be vaccinated too.
“We are expecting a massive turn out and a very busy period.
“We plan to have a lot of people vaccinated during the one week, so social distancing will be put in place for queuing.
“We will have at least four nurses vaccinating from 8.30am to 6pm so there will be plenty of opportunity for people to get in and out quickly,” said Ms Sproule.
This year, Stormont has a target of vaccinating 75 per-cent of vulnerable health groups below the age of 65.
Last year, only 58 per-cent of that group received the jab.
Ms Sproule said she would like to see an increased uptake of the flu jab among young children aged between two and three.
She continued, “We are always sitting around 53 per-cent of two to three-year-olds getting their vaccine – that is just over half of them.
“We would really like to see an increased attendance in that category.
“Parents should have received their letter by now and the children get the nasal flu vaccine.
“Due to their movement into crèches and house, it is paramount that they get it this year,” concluded Ms Sproule.
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