Winter vaccinations available in Tameside

For some, flu and COVID-19 are unpleasant. But for many, particularly those with certain health conditions, older people and pregnant women, they can be very dangerous and even life-threatening.

Every winter, thousands die from flu and people can still get very ill or die from COVID-19. Catching both viruses over winter increases the risk of serious illness even further.

Vaccines are the best protection against flu and COVID-19.

Those who can get both vaccines through the NHS include everyone aged 65 and above, pregnant women, care home residents, people aged 6 months old or above with certain health conditions, frontline health and care staff, unpaid carers and household contacts of those at higher risk.

Eligible people should have been contacted by their GP surgery with details on how to get the vaccines.

The flu vaccine is also offered to most children including all aged 2 and 3 years old and school aged children from reception to year 11, as well as those with underlying health conditions. The children’s flu vaccine is usually given as a quick and painless spray up the nose. Children should get the flu vaccine as soon as they can for their protection and to help stop the virus spreading to others.

Adult flu vaccinations can be booked now through your GP practice or local pharmacy.

Cllr Eleanor Wills, Tameside Council Executive Member for Health and Wellbeing, said: "In the face of the looming threat posed by flu and COVID-19, it is imperative that we take proactive measures to protect ourselves and our loved ones. For some, these illnesses may be merely unpleasant, but for others, especially those with specific health vulnerabilities, older individuals, and expectant mothers, they can prove to be perilous, even life-threatening.

“Our strongest shield against these adversaries remains vaccination and our local NHS services are providing vital support for groups across the borough. If you’ve received an invite, or fit the eligibility criteria, I encourage you to book an appointment as soon as possible by following the information on the Tameside Council webpage below.”

School-aged children will get their flu vaccine through schools and community venues, and those aged 2-3 years old or with certain health conditions can get the flu vaccine at their GP surgery.

You can find out the latest information about both vaccines at https://www.tameside.gov.uk/publichealth/Vaccinations/winter.