According to the latest news, hundreds of thousands of people could be at risk of the flu this Christmas, with a rise in cases being predicted.
Flu season has begun early this year, with the virus circulating and GP consultations for flu-related illness increasing to 7,500 visits, a 25 per cent increase, in the first week of December.
Children and over 65’s are at particular risk, with older people being at risk of developing more severe health complications if they contract the flu.
Professor Yvonne Doyle, Director for Health Protection and Medical Director at Public Health England, said: “No-one wants to see their children suffering with flu – far from a common cold, flu can have serious consequences for young children and those with underlying medical conditions.
“There’s still a week before Christmas, parents of two- to three-year-olds or those with underlying medical conditions should not delay, get your children vaccinated as soon as possible.”
Staying protected with Harrow Health Care
The flu vaccine ensures that you are protected, which is particularly important for vulnerable groups such as older people, children, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions.
The Harrow Health Care Centre provides a fast and convenient flu vaccination clinic for children and adults. With same-day and next-day appointments available, our doctors are here to keep you and your family fit and healthy.
There are three vaccines available at Harrow Health Care this year:
- Flucelvax: Afour strain Cell based vaccine. This is the vaccine we will be recommending for most adults (and children over 9 years old who are unable to receive the nasal flu vaccine). This is not a standard egg-grown influenza vaccine. It was used in the US and Canada in the previous flu season where it was also found to be effective in those over 65 years – £30.00
- Fluenz tetra: A four strain nasal vaccine for Children age 2-17. The advantage to this nasal vaccine is that it stimulates antibodies in the nasal passages and the lining of the airways which is unique to the nasal flu vaccine. It is therefore more successful at preventing flu in this age group and is the most effective flu vaccine for children this age – £42.00
- Quadrivalent vaccine: A four strain injection for children from 6 months of age for whom the nasal influenza vaccine is not suitable – £30.00
Contact us today to book your appointment.
