As the nights draw in and the weather inevitably gets colder, it's important to start thinking about ways to stay well over the winter months ahead.
At this time of year, vaccination is a key priority for the NHS and the first doses of flu vaccine have been offered since September to those in priority groups, including two- and three-year-olds, schoolchildren from reception to year 11 and pregnant women.
Now we're in October, people in other eligible groups, including anyone aged 65 and over, can get a free NHS flu jab and should receive an invitation by email, text, phone or post.
You can also receive a free flu vaccination if: you have certain long-term health conditions; live in a care home; are the main carer for an older or disabled person or receive a carer's allowance; or live with someone who has a weakened immune system.
Here in Hackney, community pharmacies are offering NHS flu vaccines, alongside our local GP surgeries and schools.
Pharmacies began offering flu vaccines to two- and three-year-olds for the first time last year and will do so again this year.
It's important to remember that flu is far more than a bad cold: it can lead to serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia, worsen existing health conditions, and in severe cases can lead to hospitalisation or death.
Because the flu virus changes each year, the vaccine is updated annually, so you should get vaccinated even if you had the jab last year.
Protecting yourself also protects those around you.
Vaccines are safe and effective and help us keep more people well during the colder months when we expect the NHS to again be under significant pressure, so if you're among those eligible for a flu jab this winter please come forward as soon as you can.
We do understand vaccination is a personal choice and some people may need more information to help them make the right decision for themselves or their families.
If this includes you, please feel free to contact your GP surgery, speak to a health visitor or midwife, or drop into a local pharmacy or community outreach clinic for an informal chat.
For more information on flu vaccinations, including who is eligible and where you can get a jab in your area, visit the Vaccinations Hub on the NHS North East London website at northeastlondon.icb.nhs.uk/health-advice/vaccinations/.
- Dr Zara Georgiou-Park is a local GP and clinical director for City and Hackney at NHS North East London.
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