The Seasonal Flu vaccine will be available from 1st October 2018 at the Primary Care Centre (Blood Clinic).

The flu vaccine is recommended for all persons aged 60 years or over.

The flu vaccine is also recommended for persons aged between 6 months and 60years, who suffer from certain diseases and conditions that put them at High Risk of serious complications. These diseases and conditions are:

• A chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis and emphysema

• A heart, kidney or liver disease

• Neurological conditions ( multiple sclerosis [MS] or cerebral palsy)

• Stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA)

• Diabetes

• Conditions causing lowered immunity such as HIV, cancer, disorders of the spleen (e.g. sickle cell disease) or individuals who have had their spleen removed

• Pregnancy, which gives the mother a higher risk of flu complications

• Medical treatment that lowers immunity, such as certain treatments for cancer or severe arthritis.

The flu vaccine is also recommended for:

• all front line health (doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, therapists, etc.) and social care providers (Care Agency staff, mental health staff, etc.)

• main carers of an older or disabled person

• individuals who are handlers of live animals and birds (GONHS staff, veterinary staff and bird handlers)

The vaccines will be administered between 2pm and 4pm on weekdays.

Individuals who have previously received the vaccine should collect their numbered tickets from 1.00 pm to 3.30pm outside the blood clinic at the PCC.

Individuals who have NOT previously received the vaccine should make an appointment with their GP to be referred to the vaccination clinic.