Local NHS health teams are reminding eligible people that the free flu vaccines remain available until 31 March.

Those eligible include:

  • two- and three-year-olds and school-aged children (Reception to Year 11)
  • children aged six months to 17 years at higher risk
  • people aged 65 or over
  • those with long-term health conditions
  • anyone who is pregnant
  • frontline healthcare staff

Chief Nursing Officer at Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire West Integrated Care Board Rachael Corser said: “As we hit peak flu season, it’s more important than ever to protect yourself as soon as possible. It takes about a week to 10 days after vaccination before your body starts making antibodies to the flu virus. These antibodies help protect you against similar viruses you may come into contact with.

“Flu can be a nasty experience, even for those who are usually fit and well. It can lead to serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Older people and those with underlying conditions are more likely to experience serious complications and need to be admitted to hospital.

“Flu infection during pregnancy can also have serious consequences for both mother and baby, so the message to anyone eligible for the vaccine is: please don’t put your vaccination off.”