Carers are being offered the free flu jab to protect them from catching the virus, and
stop its spread to those they care for, who could become seriously ill and even die
from catching the flu.
The NHS is offering those who are the main carer for another person, or who receive
the Carers’ Allowance, the free flu jab to protect them from becoming too ill to provide
care or passing on the virus.
Flu can easily spread to those who are vulnerable, even without symptoms showing.
The free flu vaccine is the very best way to stop carers from passing on the virus to
those receiving care – who are at most risk from becoming seriously ill if the catch the
flu.
This year with both the flu virus and Covid-19 circulating, flu immunisation is more
important than ever to reduce infections, protect each other and protect the NHS.
Those who receive a Carer’s Allowance are eligible for a free flu jab, along with primary
carers for those unable to look after themselves, and carers may still be eligible even
if not living with the person they care for.
New jab needed every year
Unlike other medication, the flu jab is an annual vaccination as the vaccine changes
every year to fight the latest strains of flu. Even those who had a jab last winter need
another one this year to stay flu safe.
Mandy Catchpole, clinical programme lead for mass vaccination, testing and
infection prevention for Sussex NHS commissioners, said: “Caring is an incredibly vital
role and all carers provide an invaluable service. If you care for someone who may be
elderly, disabled or have a serious long-term condition the free flu jab is vital to help
look after your own health, as well as theirs.
“That’s why the NHS flu jab is free for anyone who is the main carer for another person
or who is in receipt of Carers’ Allowance. Ask your GP or pharmacist if you’re eligible
and book a vaccine now.”
Source: Sussex NHS Commissioners Sussex Flu Vaccination Update, 2/11/2020
Image Credits: LuAnn Hunt / Pixabay https://pixabay.com/photos/flu-shot-needle-ouch-medical-1719334/ Pixabay https://pixabay.com/service/license/.