Let’s show them how it’s done

The NHS is bracing itself for a devastating flu season after Australia was hit by one of the worst outbreaks it’s seen in 50 years with an aggressive strain of flu.

But health chiefs are hoping Stockport will avoid the worst of it because people in the borough are so willing to take up their vaccination offer.

Traditionally Stockport does brilliantly in immunising its population and last year, once again, it had the highest overall vaccination uptake rate at just under 70%.

It’s estimated that if all areas did as well as Stockport then nationally there would be an additional 3.5m people protected this winter.

However this is no time to be complacent and so the borough’s medics are asking those eligible for a free NHS vaccination to get themselves booked in quickly.

You’ve got about 4 weeks before flu hits Britain but as it take up to two weeks for your vaccination to take full effect, getting your flu jab now is essential.

This year’s flu vaccine has been formulated to include protection against the nasty strain that hit Australia so it’s even more important that you have your jab.

Dr Ranjit Gill, a local GP and Chief Clinical Officer, NHS Stockport CCG said
“Stockport’s GP Practices lead the annual flu vaccine programme, working closely with their patients, midwifery, district nursing and hospital medical colleagues.

“They take pride in delivering the best care possible. They, and their patients, know that a higher vaccine uptake rate mean less illness and less pressure in winter on the whole NHS.”

Public Health Consultant Dr David Baxter added “Our population are generally very health oriented and see the value of vaccination. We applaud them for this as it makes our job far easier. “Added to that, we have a great team of doctors, midwives and nurses in the community and in hospital who deliver the programmes.”

Councillor Tom McGee, Stockport Council’s Cabinet Member for Health said: “I am immensely proud of Stockport’s record on flu vaccination which is testament to the excellent partnership work across the NHS, GP Practices and the council.”

Flu can be unpleasant, but if you are otherwise healthy, it will usually clear up on its own within a week. However, for some ‘at-risk’ groups, particularly those with an underlying medical condition, the flu virus can cause health complications and be life threatening.

For further information about the flu vaccine and to find out if you are eligible for a free one visit www.nhs.uk/staywell or contact your GP practice.