A message from Leeds City Council – Adults and Health

Protect yourself and the person you care for from flu

If you are looking after someone who otherwise couldn’t manage without your help, one of the most important things you can do at this time of year is to have the seasonal flu vaccine.  This is particularly important this winter because of the coronavirus pandemic.  You can have the free NHS flu vaccine if you:

  • receive Carer’s Allowance
  • are the main carer for an elderly of disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you become ill
  • live with someone who is at high risk of coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list) or you expect to be with them on most days over winter

GP practices and pharmacies are doing their very best to ensure people who are at the greatest risk from flu are vaccinated as early as possible, in line with their supply. In Leeds, practices are running flu clinics in a variety of ways, including at surgeries, in community venues and at special drive-through facilities to ensure that this year’s vaccination programme is carried out in a Covid-secure way.

GPs are currently working through their lists of patients who are eligible and contacting them to invite them for their flu jab. If you are registered as a carer, they will be in touch and will be able to advise when you may be able to access the vaccine. If you are not registered with your GP as a carer, you should contact them to let them know you are a carer.

The Department of Health and Social Care have produced a leaflet explaining why you may be asked to wait – details can be found here;

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/924425/PHE_Flu_vaccine_supplies_A5_flyer_06.pdf

Alternatively you can ask your local pharmacist if they can give you a free flu vaccination and if so they will then let your GP know that you’ve been vaccinated.

Yours sincerely

Cath Roff

Director of Adults and Health