Flu can be fatal – doctors urge those most at risk to get their free vaccine
Health experts across the North East and North Cumbria are urging people most at risk to get their free flu vaccine this winter.
Flu is a serious illness that can make people feel very unwell. For people with health problems, including those with a learning disability, flu can be much more dangerous, causing serious problems like pneumonia and breathing problems - and can sometimes be fatal.
Children and adults with a learning disability are eligible for a free flu vaccine as part of the annual NHS winter flu vaccination programme.
Dr Catherine Monaghan, respiratory consultant and medical director for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), explained: "Flu is much more than just a cold and it can lead to serious health problems, especially for people with a learning disability who often face more challenges with their health.
"The flu vaccine is a safe and simple way to protect yourself and others and can help prevent serious illness, reduce the chance of having to go to hospital, and most importantly, save lives.”
The 2022 Learning from Lives and Deaths, People with a Learning Disability and Autistic People (LeDeR) report, showed almost a quarter (23.8%) of avoidable deaths among people with a learning disability were caused by respiratory illnesses, - highlighting the vital role vaccines play in preventing serious illness.
"The flu vaccine is a quick injection and it’s free for people with a learning disability and their carers", added Dr Monaghan.
"It's available to book at GP surgeries or local pharmacies and you can take a family member, friend or carer with you to the appointment.
"Your GP can also make your appointment easier, which is called making reasonable adjustments, to help people feel more comfortable when they have their vaccination.
"Getting the flu jab is one of the best ways to stay healthy this winter so if you or someone you care for is on the learning disability register, please talk to your GP or pharmacist today to get your flu vaccine".
From 1 September, a free flu vaccine is also available for all pregnant women, children aged 2 and 3, all primary school pupils, secondary school students in Years 7 to 11, and children over six months old with health issues that put them at risk.
Pregnant women will be offered the vaccination at a routine antenatal appointment, at their GP practice or a participating pharmacy.
School children will be given a flu nasal spray at school and nursery school children, aged 2 and 3, can get a nasal spray at their GP practice from 1 September and from participating community pharmacies from 1 October by booking online.
From 1 October, the flu vaccine will also be offered to everyone aged 65 and over, adults with long-term health conditions, care home residents, carers, close contacts of people with weakened immune systems, and all frontline health and social care workers.
Anyone eligible can book at their GP practice, or online at participating community pharmacies from 1 September, through the NHS App, or by calling 119 for appointments beginning 1 October.
Daniel, 18, said:" I get my flu vaccine every year because it prevents me from getting ill.
"It's really safe, just a quick prod with a needle and that's it done and it's free if you are on the learning disability register."
Judith Thompson, NHS North East North Cumbria Learning Disability Network manager, added: "Flu can be very serious especially for people with learning disability, but the flu jab offers the best protection.
"By getting your flu jab, you're not only taking care of your own health but also helping to keep friends, family and the wider community safe this winter."