26th October 2017
A Stockport taxi driver is hoping to steer local residents away from catching flu by persuading them to have their free annual vaccine.
Mohammed Khan is driving around in one of 10 hackney taxis in Greater Manchester, emblazoned with eye catching advertising, encouraging people to have their flu jabs.
It’s part of a co-ordinated “Stay Well This Winter” campaign aimed at keeping people free from flu and easing the pressure on the NHS with a heavy flu season predicted.
Mohammed’s convinced his taxi will make a difference. He said: “The advert on my taxi has certainly got people’s attention and is creating a great buzz around Stockport.
“People keep asking me about the campaign and if they are eligible for a free jab. It’s really great to be part a campaign to prevent them from getting sick.”
For many people catching flu is just a nasty inconvenience but those in at risk groups – such as the over 65’s, expectant mums or those with an underlying medical condition – flu can be very serious and potentially life threatening.
Dr David Baxter, Stockport Consultant in Infection Control said: “Australia and New Zealand have suffered a heavy flu season and this means we’re also likely to be hit hard.
“This makes it even more important that people at risk of complications from flu get vaccinated. Please don’t take risks with your health – have your flu vaccination and play safe!”
Councillor Tom McGee, Stockport Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, said: “In Stockport we do very well every year in vaccinating those eligible for the free flu vaccination.
“However there is still plenty of room for improvement and the more people that have the vaccination the less likely people will end up sick or in hospital as a result of the flu.
“The flu vaccination is very safe and painless. As I’m in one of the target groups, I’ve just had mine.”
For further information about the flu vaccine and to find out if you are eligible for a free one visit www.nhs.uk/staywell