PUBLIC Health Wales is urging all eligible people in Wales to have their free flu vaccine as NHS Wales begins its largest ever national flu vaccine programme.

Flu (also known as influenza) can be serious, particularly for those who are older or have a health condition and are more vulnerable to complications as a result of the flu. Having a flu vaccine every year is one of the most effective ways to protect against flu.

Those eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine include people with long term health conditions, people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, children aged two to ten years old, carers, domiciliary carers and care home staff with regular client contact as well as care home residents.

It is also free for Community First responders and volunteers providing planned first aid. Annual flu vaccine is strongly recommended for all frontline health and social care workers to protect themselves and those they care for.

Children aged two and three (August 31, 2020) and all primary school children (reception to year six) will be offered the vaccine in nasal spray form. Children from two years old that have a long-term health condition can also receive a free flu nasal spray.

For this season’s flu programme, new groups have been added to the eligible list, making it the largest ever national flu programme.

The new eligible groups include household contacts on the NHS shielded list and people with a learning disability.

In addition, people aged 50 and over may also be offered a free NHS flu vaccine later in a phased approach later in the season.

Minister for Health and Social Services, Vaughan Gething, said: “This year we are extending the flu vaccine to more people than ever before. Flu spreads very easily and anyone can catch it. However, it is especially dangerous to people that are more vulnerable, such as those with long term health conditions and pregnant women.

“This winter, with the continued presence of Covid-19 we want to ensure more people receive the flu vaccine, this is why we have increased the eligible groups.

“I understand that some people may be concerned about going to their community pharmacy or GP surgery to get their vaccine because of COVID-19, but surgeries and pharmacies will be following the latest safety practices.

“I strongly urge those who are eligible to have their vaccine as soon as possible to help protect themselves, their families and their community.”