People urged to book flu jabs as rollout begins

People eligible for a free flu jab in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire have been urged to book an appointment.

The programme of vaccinations began on Thursday.

Those eligible for a free jab include the over 65s, pregnant women, care home residents and people classed clinically-vulnerable.

Steve Clapton, assistant director of health protection for the area, said the vaccine is "one of the best ways to protect yourself, your family and those around you ahead as we move into the winter months."

"This is why we're encouraging everyone who is eligible to get vaccinated from 1 October," he added.

"It can be very dangerous for those in higher risk groups who can go onto experience serious complications such as pneumonia and bronchitis. It really can make some people seriously ill."

NHS bosses say anyone who is eligible for a free jab does not have to wait for an invitation to book a vaccination appointment.

The main eligible groups are:

• People who are, or will be, 65-years-old or over by 31 March 2027
• Anyone aged between 18 and 64 with certain long-term health conditions
• Residents of a care home
• Carers for older of disabled people, or people who receive a carers allowance
• Anyone living in the household of someone with a weakened immune system
• Pregnant women
• People who are homelessness or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
• Frontline health and social care workers

More information on eligibility is available on the NHS website.

Children can also get the vaccine from the age of two until they leave secondary school.

People may be able to get a vaccine from a GP surgery, a pharmacy which offers NHS flu vaccinations for those aged 18 or over, their maternity service or care home.

Children are offered a nasal spray vaccination at school by the local school-aged immunisation service.

Parents and carers will receive a consent form to complete before vaccination team attending the school, according to the NHS.

Listen to BBC Radio Derby on Sounds and follow BBC Derby on Facebook, on X, or on Instagram. Send your story ideas to eastmidsnews@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp on 0808 100 2210.