NHS Greater Manchester has urged people to do "simple things" to protect themselves against winter viruses, warning winter is a "challenging time" for the health service. A plea has been issued to those eligible to get vaccinated against flu, Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Warning over serious illness
Winter viruses can cause serious illness, particularly in older people, pregnant women, babies and people with certain long-term health conditions, officials warn. The NHS says getting vaccinated against these viruses is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell and being hospitalised.
Dr Manisha Kumar, chief clinical officer at NHS Greater Manchester, said: "Winter can be a challenging time for our NHS, but there are simple things we can all do to help protect ourselves and those around us.
"If you are eligible for a winter vaccination, please take up the offer. Flu, Covid-19 and RSV can all cause serious illness, particularly for people who are more vulnerable, and vaccination is one of the best ways to reduce that risk.
"RSV is perhaps less familiar to people, but it can cause serious illness, particularly in babies and older adults. If you are pregnant or eligible for an RSV vaccination because of your age or health, please make sure you take up the offer.
"Taking these small steps can help keep you and your loved ones well and help reduce pressure on NHS services during the colder months."
How to get the flu jab or Covid jab
Flu vaccines will be available to those eligible from Thursday (October 1). Those eligible include people aged 65 and over and those with certain long term health conditions.
Covid-19 jabs will also be available from October 1. Eligible groups include people aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older adults and people aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment.
Flu and Covid-19 jabs may be given at the same appointment where appropriate.
How to get the RSV jab
RSV is a common respiratory virus which causes mild cold like symptoms for most people. However, in some cases is can cause serious lung infections, including pneumonia.
Those most at risk are babies and older adults - and the virus is a major cause of hospital admissions in young babies during the winter months.
The NHS offers an RSV vaccine throughout the year to those who are eligible. Those eligible include pregnant women from 28 weeks of pregnancy, people aged 75 and over and residents in care homes for older adults.
The programme has recently been expanded to include people aged 65 to 74 with certain long term respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems.
How to stay safe this winter
The NHS says people can also help protect themselves and others this winter by washing their hands regularly with soap and water, covering their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and disposing of tissues, letting fresh air into indoor spaces where possible, staying at home and avoiding close contact with others if they are unwell, and seeking advice early if they become unwell, particularly if they are at higher risk of serious illness.
