The elderly, pregnant women, children and those with long-term conditions across Yorkshire and the Humber are being urged to get their free flu vaccination ahead of winter.

This year the vaccination is being offered free to more people than ever, including care home workers and more children.

The vaccination is available at pharmacies and GP practices and those eligible are being encouraged to get theirs to keep themselves and others well this winter.

Medical Director for NHS England in Yorkshire and the Humber, Paul Twomey, said: “It is vital that those who are eligible for the flu vaccination get theirs as soon as possible.

“The sooner you have it the better as it takes up to two weeks for you to be fully protected.

“With more people eligible than ever before and the vaccine available in more locations, people should protect themselves and those around them.”

There has been a significant expansion of the national flu vaccination programme for key groups, aiming to offer the vaccine to over 21 million people.

The Stay Well This Winter campaign is an initiative from Public Health England and NHS England to help the most vulnerable people prepare for winter and avoid having to visit hospital due to common winter illnesses.

Who gets the vaccination?

• Those aged 65 and over.
• People with long term health conditions
• Health care workers
• Children aged two and three
• School children up to year four
• Children aged six months and above with some health conditions

View further information about eligbility for the flu vaccination.