Ahead of World Diabetes Day (Thursday 14 November), people living in the Black Country who have type 1 or 2 diabetes are being reminded of the importance of having a flu and COVID-19 vaccination this winter.
Having diabetes is a known risk factor for both flu and COVID-19, which means that if you catch either virus, you are likely to be more ill than somebody who has no health conditions.
That is why vaccination is offered free on the NHS for anybody who is living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
There are more 100,000 people in the Black Country who have type 1 or type 2 diabetes, and the NHS would like to see as many as possible come forward to get protected against flu and COVID-19 this winter.
Sally Roberts, Chief Nursing Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “People with diabetes may not be aware that they are entitled to a free flu and COVID-19 vaccination on the NHS, especially if they are younger and their condition is well managed, but we offer it to everybody who has diabetes.
“Diabetes affects the immune system, which means people with the condition are not only more likely to catch these viruses, they are less able to fight them off, putting them at risk of developing complications.
“The vaccines are safe and effective and are designed to help protect those who are most at risk from these viruses, which circulate during the winter months.
“So, if you’re eligible, I would urge you to take up the offer of both the flu and COVID-19 jabs.”
As well as people with diabetes, those eligible for a COVID-19 and flu vaccine includes:
- all adults aged 65 years and over
- people who live in a care home for older adults
- people aged 6 months to 64 years with health conditions that make them more vulnerable
- frontline health and social care staff, including in care homes for older adults
- pregnant women
Eligible people can book an appointment via the NHS website, on the NHS App or by calling 119.
Calls to 119 are free from mobiles and landlines and the booking service provides support in 200 different languages. Those who have difficulties communicating or hearing or are a BSL user can use textphone 18001 or the NHS 119 British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter service.
For more information about the flu vaccine and to book an appointment, visit the NHS website here.
