RESIDENTS who are the most vulnerable to flu are being urged to get their free vaccination before winter arrives.

The flu jab will be offered to pregnant women, parents of children aged two and three-years-old and adults with underlying health conditions as they are believed to be at particular risk from the virus.

Cabinet member for Adult Care and Health Cllr Christine Jones 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 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.”

For young children, the flu vaccine is not an injection but a nasal spray.

Youngsters in reception and school years 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 can receive it in school however parents must sign a consent form allowing them to have the vaccine.

As well as opening up the programme to more children, the NHS will also be offering a more effective ‘adjuvanted’ vaccine to those aged 65 and over, which helps their immune systems develop protection against flu.

For more information on how to get your vaccine or find out if you are eligible, contact your GP, pharmacist or midwife or visit https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine/?WT.mc_id=FluWirral2018