Islanders are being called upon to get vaccinated and protected against flu and covid viruses by their local NHS.
Over the festive period Isle of Wight NHS Trust has seen increasing numbers of people attending the emergency department with flu.
Neal: Only attend ED if it is an emergency
Laura Neal, Director of Nursing Isle of Wight NHS Trust said,
“We are seeing high numbers of people in our emergency department, particularly with flu. Islanders can help reduce the spread of infection by getting vaccinated, reducing contact with others and washing hands regularly with soap.
“If you do need to come to the emergency department please come alone or bring one other person only. This will really help our teams and reduce the spread of infection.
“People can support their local hospital by only attending the emergency department if it is an emergency.
“If you think you need medical advice and are not sure where to go then please visit NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice first. Your GP surgery and local pharmacy are also on hand to provide support for a number of illnesses.”
The Island’s pharmacy opening hours for New Year’s Day (1st January 2025) can be found online.
Get vaccinated, blood pressure checked in January
Islanders are being invited to attend a health and wellbeing event to get their blood pressure checked, discuss their wellbeing as well as an opportunity to have their seasonal vaccinations.
Laura Neal, Director of Nursing continued,
“With high numbers flu cases it is important to still get vaccinated. Getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to get protected, ensure milder symptoms and a quicker recovery.
“No appointment is needed, just come along to any of the health and wellbeing clinics in January. Our friendly team will be happy to assist you and support your health and wellbeing.”
The team will also be on hand to share advice and information on healthy lifestyle choices such as weight management support, stopping smoking and stress management.
Walk-in vaccinations
The St Mary’s Hospital Vaccination Hub, South Block, is also inviting eligible people to walk-in for their covid and flu vaccination on Tuesdays and Thursdays in January. The Hub will be open from Monday 6th January to Thursday 30th January 2025 and will then close until the spring.
If you’re not sure if you have a condition that means you’re eligible for the vaccination, or you need help with booking an appointment, the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Covid Vaccination Helpline team will be able to help via 0300 561 0018.
People eligible for a vaccination include anyone aged 65 years and over, and adults over 18 who have severe immunosuppression. Carers and close contacts of people with severe immunosuppression may have the flu vaccination.
Health and wellbeing events
The health and wellbeing events will be taking place across the island throughout January and light refreshments will be available for anyone attending:
Better Days Café Tuesday 14th January 10:30am to 1:30pm 64 High Street, Ventnor, PO38 1LT The Apex, St Faith’s Church Thursday 16th January 11:30am to 2:30pm St Faith’s Road, Cowes, PO31 7HH Shanklin Methodist Church Hall Monday 20th January 10:30am to 1:30pm 21 Regent Street, Shanklin, PO37 7AF Lord Louis Library Wednesday 22nd January 10:30am to 1:30pm Orchard Street, Newport, PO30 1LL East Cowes Library Thursday 23rd January 12:30pm to 3:30pm York Avenue, East Cowes, PO32 6RU The Broadway Centre Tuesday 28th January 10:30am to 1:30pm Sandown Town Council1 Broadway, Sandown, PO36 9GG Wootton Bridge Community Centre Thursday 30th January 1pm to 4pm Brannon Way, Wootton Bridge, PO33 4NW
News shared by Isle of Wight NHS Trust, in their own words. Ed
