Join the fight against flu

The council has been reminding people that free flu vaccinations are available to all vulnerable groups including people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, those with long-term conditions and children aged two, three and four years old. People living in long-stay residential homes and children of school years 1 and 2 are also eligible. The vaccination has to be done annually to be effective.

This year community pharmacies are also offering free flu jabs for vulnerable groups, as well as GPs.

For more information visit the NHS Choices website or www.southglos.gov.uk/flu

Flu vaccinations for two and three year olds

The annual flu vaccinations are now being offered to healthy two and three year olds.

Previously it was only offered to children with a condition that puts them at risk from the effects of flu. Now all children who were aged two or three on 1st September 2013 will have the chance to get vaccinated.

The vaccination is administered via a nasal spray, so no injection is required. It has also proven more effective in preventing flu in children than other vaccines.

Local GP practices in South Gloucestershire are currently contacting parents of children in the target age group to arrange a vaccination appointment. If you aren't contacted and think you should have been, do contact your surgery.