RESIDENTS across Wirral are being urge to 'Stay Well This Winter' by receiving their free flu vaccination.

A campaign from Public Health England and NHS England has launched today ahead of flu season.

Now in its third year 'Stay Well This Winter' campaign aims to protect the most vulnerable people living across Wirral from the dangers of flu.

Those who are most vulnerable to flu are being urged to get their free flu vaccination ahead of winter.

This year's campaign aims to continue to increase the uptake of the vaccination.

Hayley Teshome Tesfaye, consultant in Public Health and Cheshire and Merseryside Screening and Immunisation Lead, said: “For many people flu is an unpleasant illness but for the most vulnerable in society, small children, the elderly, those with long-term health problems and for pregnant women – it is extremely dangerous and can be lethal.

“Getting the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from catching flu and my advice for anyone eligible for the free flu vaccination is to get it now before flu starts to circulate across Cheshire and Merseyside.”

The vaccination is offered to those who are at most risk including those over the age of 65, pregnant women and people with long term health conditions such as asthma.

Chief Medical Officer, Professor Dame Sally Davies said: “Flu kills and we could save thousands of lives if everyone eligible got their free jab.

“With more people eligible than ever before and the vaccine available in more locations, people should protect themselves and those around them against this potentially deadly virus.

"Taking a few minutes to get the jab could save your life this winter.”

To get your vaccine or find out if you are eligible contact your GP, pharmacist or midwife.

For more information visit nhs.uk/staywell