New community film highlights flu vaccinations
Community partners in the Bristol area have come together in support of the latest NHS flu campaign, encouraging people who are eligible to consider a flu vaccination to help protect themselves and their loved ones this winter.
Organisations including the Easton Community Centre, BCFM radio, the Chinese Community Wellbeing Society, Caafi Health and a local care home for older people are highlighting the flu campaign with an original short film.
The film was recorded this autumn with members of community groups saying one or two lines each about why people should get the flu vaccination. The central message is that flu can put vulnerable people at risk, especially people with other health conditions. The flu vaccine is safe, free, and is the best way to protect ourselves and each other.
Across the country, cases of flu are rising quickly compared to last year. Over one million flu vaccine doses have been given so far this autumn across the West in an effort to slow the spread of the disease which affects the respiratory system. For some people flu symptoms can be manageable, but for others it could become detrimental to their health.
Marcus, a presenter on BCFM Radio and features in the film, said: “It was great to be involved in this film and help spread the word about flu vaccinations.
“It takes minutes to get the flu vaccination and can really make a difference to the local community and our local health services.”
The one-minute-long video will be widely shared by local NHS organisations and partners to raise awareness. The film can be watched on the Healthier Together YouTube channel.
Dr Geeta Iyer, Local GP and Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board, said: “By getting your flu vaccination, you are helping yourself and others to stay well this winter.
“I am pleased this video has been produced to encourage more people to take up the flu vaccination. It highlights how our communities can come together to support each other through what is already predicted to be a challenging winter for our local health services.”
Free flu vaccinations are available across many local pharmacies in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. They can also be given at local GP practices and walk-in clinics.
You can find further information about flu vaccine eligibility and local walk-in clinics in the Bristol area on our website.