15 November 2017
The following message is from our colleagues at Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG)
Local health chiefs from Telford & Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group are encouraging residents with a long term health condition to take control this winter by taking a few simple steps.
A flu jab is a must. It’s quick, simple, free and harmless. And for anyone with a long-term condition a bout of winter flu can lead to a range of complications which are avoidable. It’s also available for anyone aged over 65, children aged two and three, pregnant women, carers and health and social care workers and people with chronic neurological diseases.
Dr Jo Leahy at Telford and Wrekin Clinical Commissioning Group said: “Flu on top of an existing long-term health condition can easily develop into something very serious and could land you in hospital. If you have a condition like: COPD; bronchitis; emphysema; diabetes; heart, kidney or liver disease or have suffered a stroke, you should get the flu jab without delay. Ask your GP, pharmacist or midwife about the free flu vaccine.”
There are lots of other ways to take care of yourself and loved ones this winter:
Get advice from a pharmacist at the first sign of a winter illness, before it gets more serious.
Pick up prescription medications before the Christmas holidays start, as many GPs and pharmacies will close over the holidays. Also stock up your medicine cabinet with general supplies to help get you and your family through the winter season. Ask your pharmacist for advice.
Keep warm both inside and outdoors to help prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.
Keep an eye out for elderly relatives and neighbours who might be struggling in the cold weather or icy conditions.
Find out more about keeping you and your family safe and well this winter by visiting out take care Telford page at www.telfordccg.nhs.uk.