Flu is a highly infectious disease and can lead to serious complications for people who have long term health conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, heart, kidney or liver disease or who have suffered a stroke.
People with these and other long term health conditions are eligible for a free flu vaccination through their GP or pharmacist.
The over 65s, carers and those in long stay residential care homes, pregnant women, children aged 2 and 3 as well as school children from Reception through to Year 4 are also eligible for the free flu vaccine, with children receiving their vaccination through a quick nasal spray rather than an injection.
People who are not eligible for a free vaccination can still get their vaccination at retailers including some supermarkets and high street pharmacies for a small charge.
Councillor Paul Sweet, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "It is estimated that several million people get flu each winter and it can be very dangerous, with many of us needing hospital treatment.
"The message is clear; if you are eligible for the flu vaccine, please get it now - it's free because you need it. Even if you are not eligible for the free vaccination, you can still arrange to get it for a small charge."
Providing flu vaccinations is part of the Stay Well This Winter campaign, a joint initiative from NHS England and Public Health England to help the public ward off common winter illnesses. Please visit Type=links;Linkid=7673;Title=Stay Well This Winter;Target=_blank; for more information.
- released: Wednesday 18 October, 2017