Wealden MP Nus Ghani is urging those residents who are eligible to get a flu jab this winter as the Government launches its drive to vaccinate 30 million people.
Public Health England research suggests that people who tested positive for both flu and Covid-19 were more than twice as likely to die, compared to those with Covid-19 alone.
The research also found that those with co-infection of the two viruses were more at risk of severe illness.
The flu vaccination programme is being expanded this year to help protect people from flu and ease pressure on the NHS and urgent care services. The health system is working to provide the free flu vaccine to 30 million people, the highest number on record.
Those included are:
- All primary school children, and, for the first time, Year 7 children.
- Children aged two and three.
- The most vulnerable people, including adults aged 65 and over, those with long-term health conditions and pregnant women.
- Household contact of people on the NHS Shielded Patient List and all health and social care workers who have direct contact with the people they care for.
Once uptake has been maximised in the most at-risk groups, the newly eligible 50 to 64-year-olds will be invited for vaccination.
Nus Ghani said: “This year, more than ever, it is vital that those eligible for the winter flu jab get it. I urge everyone in Wealden who is eligible to get vaccinated and protect themselves and their families. This will make an important difference should they also come into contact with coronavirus in the months ahead.”
The Wealden area covers towns including Crowborough, East Sussex, Heathfield, Hailsham and Uckfield and their surrounding villages.
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