With the winter season upon us, Wells Health Centre is actively encouraging eligible patients to get their flu vaccination.

Karen Polly, Managing Partner at the Centre, is emphasising the critical role the flu vaccine plays in protecting individuals and the wider community from the virus.

Karen Polly explains, "Flu can be much more than a heavy cold; its symptoms can be severe, often confining people to bed for several days. In some cases, it leads to hospitalisation."

She highlights the vaccine's safety and efficacy, noting, "The flu vaccine is our best defence against this unpredictable virus. It's very safe and cannot give you the flu. Some might experience a sore arm or a slight temperature, but these are minor compared to the benefits."

The need for annual vaccination is crucial, as the flu virus mutates and changes each year. "

You need to have the flu vaccine every year because the circulating strains of the virus change, requiring different vaccines to match these variations," she explains.

Pregnant women, in particular, are urged to get vaccinated at any stage of their pregnancy.

"Flu can significantly affect both mother and baby. Getting vaccinated not only protects you but also your baby after birth and during the crucial first few months," she added

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Additionally, getting vaccinated is a community responsibility.

"Your vaccination doesn't just protect you; it helps safeguard those around you, including elderly relatives, those with long-term conditions, and your family members," Karen emphasises.

Wells Health Centre is reaching out to all eligible individuals to get vaccinated.

"If you are eligible for a flu vaccine, please contact your GP practice. It's not too late, even if you've previously declined but have since changed your mind," Polly assures.