Fire stations open doors to fight flu this half term

During half term this week, parents were given an additional opportunity to get their children protected against flu at fire stations across the county, making appointments more accessible and local.

More than 200,000 people have already had their flu vaccine in Derbyshire, just 4 weeks into the winter campaign, and across Derbyshire, a number of community initiatives took place to further encourage uptake.

This week, children’s flu clinics took place at various fire stations across the county, including Buxton, Allenton, Alfreton and Swadlincote, with more than 225 appointments booked.

School-aged children are eligible for the flu vaccine – it is delivered as a nasal spray every winter. Most vaccines take place in school or through the local GP, but these additional clinics gave a further catch-up opportunity.

Mandy Simpson, Associate Director for Immunisations and Screenings at NHS Derby and Derbyshire, said: “Children are at risk of becoming very unwell with flu.

“Each winter, thousands of children are hospitalised because of flu, and in Derbyshire just this last week, we’ve seen a rise in children attending hospital because of flu.

“It’s so important for our children to be protected early, because flu can spread easily in schools and nurseries, and even healthy children can become very poorly.

“By having more accessible locations for vaccines, parents can ensure their children are well protected as we head into the colder months.”

Flu vaccines are available for everyone aged 65 and over, under 65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, pregnant women, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed and frontline health and social care workers, as well as children.

For appointments, check availability via the NHS App, the online booking site, by calling 119 or by contacting your GP practice.

You can also find your nearest local pharmacy offering the vaccine.