• WITH the weather starting to get colder, one of the best things to do is think about how we can stay fit and healthy this winter. One of the biggest risks to health over the winter is flu, an unpleasant illness at the best of times.

For older people and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma or lung disease, it can be especially serious, and cause complications which can lead to a stay in hospital. In the very worst cases flu can be fatal.

People at particular risk can have a free flu jab at their local pharmacy or doctor’s surgery. As well as over-65s and those with underlying health conditions, this includes people who are very overweight and those caring for an elderly or disabled person.

This week, I’ve had my jab early at an Islington community pharmacy, and I’d like to encourage anyone else at particular risk to come forward and get their jab now.

The council is encouraging uptake of the flu jab for our frontline care staff who look after vulnerable residents in care homes and the community, as well as encouraging our provider partners to protect staff caring for our residents by having the flu jab.

The NHS offers a free nasal spray vaccine to children aged two to nine. Parents of children aged two to three can arrange vaccination for their children by contacting their GP surgery.

Children in reception and school years one to five will receive it at school – all parents need to do is sign the consent form provided by their school.

If you think you should have a free flu jab please don’t delay – it’s free because you need it – you can speak to your GP or pharmacist today.

CLLR JANET BURGESS
Executive member for health and wellbeing, Islington Council