RSV vaccine for the first time, in addition to the groups already eligible. RSV is a common virus that can cause pneumonia and other serious lung infections, and the newly eligible groups have been identified as being at greater risk of hospital admission from the virus. The Healthy Conversation initiative will run across community venues, GP waiting rooms and social media over the coming months, with TWIPP partners supporting residents to find accurate, trusted information and book their vaccinations with confidence. Starting the conversation Sometimes the bravest thing is just
Everyone should be able to talk to someone they trust about health worries – and find out how flu and RSV vaccines can help keep them safe this winter. Telford & Wrekin Council has joined forces with the Telford & Wrekin Integrated Place Partnership (TWIPP) to bring residents the Healthy Conversation initiative, encouraging residents to talk openly with someone they trust about the health worries that so often go unspoken. The campaign is built on a simple idea: that a conversation with a family member, friend, neighbour or carer can be the first step towards better health. From there, residents are being pointed towards practical protection – starting with this year’s flu vaccination programme. Flu circulates every winter and can be serious, particularly for older people, young children and those with existing health conditions. The NHS is encouraging everyone who is eligible to come forward for their free flu jab, available through GP surgeries, participating pharmacies and, for many children, through school vaccination sessions. Alongside flu, the Council is highlighting an important expansion to the RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccination programme. From September, all adults aged 65 to 74 who live with a chronic respiratory condition or who have a suppressed immune system will be offered the
Residents are encouraged to visit nhs.uk to check their eligibility for both the flu and RSV vaccination programmes, and to speak to their GP practice or local pharmacy for more information. www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu
TOTALLY TELFORD
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