Published on: 3rd December 2015
People with learning disabilities in Lincolnshire are being encouraged to get their flu vaccination if they’ve been contacted by their GP.
It is estimated there are 1.2 million people in England that have a learning disability many of which also have long term conditions such as respiratory problems. This makes them at risk of complications should they contract flu.
The vaccination is free to anyone that needs it and is available at local GP surgeries and at some pharmacists.
Children with learning disabilities can have the flu vaccination through a nasal spray.
Deb Hussey, Learning Disability Service Manager at LPFT said:
We know that those with learning disabilities may have other health issues which make them more vulnerable to flu. Flu can be a very unpleasant illness causing fever, stuffy nose, dry cough, sore throat, aching muscles and joints and extreme tiredness that often last for several days.
Some people can also get a very high fever, sometimes without the usual flu symptoms, and may need to go to hospital for treatment.
If you care for someone with learning disabilities remind them about the free flu jab.
For more information about the flu vaccination, along with information about where you can get the vaccination please visit NHS Choices
For more information about staying well this winter, visit www.nhs.uk/staywell
