Swine flu vaccine encouraged for all community groups

Hayley MaceHealth chiefs are urging people from all corners to have the swine flu vaccine if they need it.People in the Waveney and Great Yarmouth areas who may not be registered with a doctor - including the travelling communities, those from non-English speaking groups or people without a permanent address - could be missing the chance to be vaccinated.Hayley Mace

Health chiefs are urging people from all corners to have the swine flu vaccine if they need it.

People in the Waveney and Great Yarmouth areas who may not be registered with a doctor - including the travelling communities, those from non-English speaking groups or people without a permanent address - could be missing the chance to be vaccinated.

The priority groups for the vaccine are people already in at risk groups for seasonal flu, pregnant women, people in regular close contact with others with compromised immune systems, people aged over 65 who are in an at risk group for seasonal flu and children aged between six months and five years.

Shamsher Diu, public health consultant for NHS Yarmouth and Waveney, said: 'If you are within the priority group but have not been invited for the vaccine then please contact us to register with a doctor. It is really important for your health.'

Louise Bell, specialist health visitor for travellers and migrant workers for NHS Yarmouth and Waveney, said: 'The vaccine is not only about protecting you - but also those around you which may mean young children or pregnant daughters or wives. If you can't catch it you can't pass it on.'

The vaccination is currently being delivered to GP practices throughout Yarmouth and Waveney.

Anyone wanting to find their nearest doctor can call 01502 719501 or call NHSDirect on 0845 4647.

Anyone with flu-like symptoms should not contact a GP, but should instead ring the National Pandemic Flu Service on 0800 1 513 100 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/pandemicflu.