Flu vaccinations
The NHS is working to increase uptake of the flu vaccination for people with learning disabilities and those who care for them this winter.
- People with learning disabilities and those who care for them are entitled to a free flu vaccination
- People with learning disabilities are more likely to become seriously ill or die if they get the flu
Importantly, paid carers who are employed by a registered care provider are eligible for a free flu vaccination this year, as well as primary family carers. If carers have the vaccination this improves protection for the people they care for.
An easy read information sheet (aimed at people with learning disabilities and their carers) has been developed with the National Development Team for Inclusion explaining this.
It is hoped this will give people the information they need to get their vaccination at either their GP surgery or pharmacy, and overcome any barriers to that happening. It is not yet well known enough that this group, and their carers, are eligible. An easy read leaflet, suitable for GP surgeries, is available to order from PHE.
There is also published guidance about flu vaccinations for people with learning disabilities aimed largely at health and social care professionals.
A recording of a webinar recently held about flu immunisations and people with learning disabilities is available to view online.
The Health lead at Contact for Families with Disabled Children has put together some questions and answers about getting a flu vaccination, which address some of the concerns parents have raised on their Facebook page recently.