More than 4 million people have now had their flu vaccination in the Midlands ensuring they have vital protection in what has been the worst flu season for a decade.

With flu still in circulation, the NHS is urging people in the Midlands to get vaccinated  now to ensure maximum protection. There are still a number of eligible people who are yet to take up their flu vaccinations and are therefore at increased risk of serious illness.

Those eligible for the flu jab include all people aged 50 and over, health and social care workers, those “at risk” due to another medical condition, as well as pregnant women and children aged two and three.

For children, the flu vaccine is offered as a nasal spray, which is quick and painless. Parents and guardians of children aged two and three and children in high-risk groups can make an appointment through their GP surgery.

Secondary school aged children are being vaccinated this month through schools and community clinics. If parents and guardians think their reception and primary school aged children have missed their flu vaccination, they should contact their local school-aged vaccination service or ask at their school if unsure.

Roz Lindridge, the NHS England director responsible for overseeing the vaccination programme across the Midlands, said:

“We are delighted that over 4 million people in the Midlands have now come forward for their flu vaccination. NHS workers, GPs and Pharmacists have all done an amazing job to get people protected from the dangers of flu this winter.

“Anyone who has been invited for a flu vaccine but yet to take it up, should come forward now –  it is not too late and I would urge you to book an appointment at your local pharmacy, GP or via the National Booking Service, as soon as possible.

There are many local sites, including GP surgeries and pharmacies that are offering the free jab and getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent yourself becoming seriously ill with flu and potentially needing hospital care.

“The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from this virus this winter.”

To book or manage a free NHS flu vaccination at a pharmacy visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/book-flu-vaccination/

Those eligible for the flu jab are:

• Two and three-year-olds
• All primary school-aged children
• Some secondary school-aged children
• Pregnant women
• People aged 50 and over
• Those with a specified health condition
• Those in care homes
• People who are carers, as set out in the Green Book
• Frontline healthcare workers
• Frontline social care staff who do not have access to occupational health schemes
• Household contacts of people with weakened immune systems.