Priority groups urged to get swine flu vaccine

Pregnant women and people aged over the age of six months, with underlying health conditions are among the first groups to be encouraged to get the swine flu vaccination that is now available in the borough of Rochdale.

Frontline health and social care workers are also amongst the first priority groups to receive the swine flu vaccine, as staff have regular and close clinical contact with patients and are at more risk of exposure to the virus and consequently the spreading the virus to vulnerable patients.

Dr Sheila Will, Director of Public Health at NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale said: “Limited supplies of the swine flu vaccine have now been delivered to GP surgeries and we’re encouraging everyone in the priority groups to take up the offer of vaccination when they are invited to do so.

“People in these groups, which also include those who live with people who have a weak immune system, will be contacted by letter from their GP surgery inviting them to attend a vaccination clinic.There are four drop in sessions for pregnant women who would like any extra advice and support about any concerns they have about the vaccine. Dr Sheila Will and a midwife will be present at these events which are being held on:

• Friday 20 November 9.30am to 11.30am at Middleton Masonic Lodge 
• Friday 20 November 12.30pm to 2.30pm at Derby Street Children’s Centre, Heywood 
• Tuesday 24 November 9.30am to 11.30am at Littleborough Community Campus on Calderbrook Road 
• Tuesday 24 November 2.00pm to 4.00pm Committee Room 1, Town Hall, Rochdale 

If you have any further concerns, you should speak to your GP or visit the NHS website advice. Anyone who thinks they may have contracted the swine flu virus can contact the National Pandemic Flu Service online, or telephone 0800 1 513 513 for information, or 0800 1 513 100 for treatment.