WIRRAL health chiefs are getting behind the launch of a nationwide campaign urging healthcare colleagues and those eligible for a free flu jab to take up the offer.

As the colder months begin to bite, David Allison – chief executive of Wirral University Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust - knows only too well the pressures that this time of year brings to the 5,500 people employed at Arrowe Park Hospital.

He said: “As we approach our busiest season in the health service, flu outbreaks become an increased risk to our patients. It’s therefore vital that we take steps to protect those we care for, our colleagues, friends and family – and ourselves.

“For most healthy people, flu is an unpleasant experience with recovery time taking up to a week. However, older people, the very young, pregnant women and those with a long-term health condition, even if it is well managed, are at particular risk. It’s these groups of people we need to protect against this unpredictable virus.

David added: “It’s also important that we protect our frontline hospital teams too. We’re already well into our staff flu jab programme for this year as we know our NHS colleagues can make the biggest impact on preventing its spread.”

Flu symptoms include fever, chills and aching muscles and can be very distressing, particularly for young children.

Children aged two to four and children of school year one and two, pregnant women, people aged 65 years and over and those with a long-term health condition are eligible for the free flu vaccination.

For young children, the vaccination is available as a nasal spray, with no need for an injection.

If you are unsure as to whether you are eligible for a free flu vaccination on the NHS, speak to your local pharmacist or GP.

Whether it’s the jab or the quick and painless nasal spray now is the time to get vaccinated to help protect yourself and loved ones against the flu virus.

The 2015 flu vaccination programme is just one part of a wider national campaign called ‘Stay Well This Winter’.

It’s been designed to help the public stay well by recommending a course of actions, such as having the flu jab, so a visit to a hospital may not be required. Other advice as part of the campaign includes:

  • Seeking immediate advice and help from a pharmacist as soon as you feel unwell, before it gets too serious
  • Getting prescriptions before Christmas Eve
  • Completing the course of prescription medicines
  • Keeping as warm as possible
  • Stocking up on winter food supplies
  • Keeping an eye on elderly or frail friends, neighbours and relatives