Carers are being encouraged to get a flu vaccination to protect both themselves and the person they care for this winter.
In West Sussex the flu vaccine is available for free to groups who are identified as being most at risk, including:
• those aged 65 years and over
• people aged 6 months – 64 years with long term conditions
• pregnant women
• children aged 2, 3 & 4 and children in school years 1, 2 & 3
• everyone living in a residential or nursing home
Carers are also entitled to get the jab for free and can get it at their local GP surgery or participating pharmacy.
West Sussex County Council Cabinet Member for Community Wellbeing, Christine Field said: “It is often easy to forget that as a carer there is just as much need to get the flu vaccination for yourself as there is to get it for the person you’re caring for.
“The carer’s role is so important and if you catch the flu, it could affect your ability to provide the invaluable support you usually give the person you care for.
“So remember, when booking the flu jab for the person you care for, book yourself in as well so that you can both stay well this winter.”
You can find out if you are eligible and more information on seasonal flu at www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk/fight-flu.