As we gain years in life our body begins to slow down and not work quite as it used to. The immune system which fights off bugs becomes weaker, and you can be more susceptible to infections. Some of the older populations have other health conditions which can mean a virus like the flu could be life-threatening. Just like childhood, there are vaccinations that can help protect you from getting seriously ill with certain viruses.

It is important to keep up to date with these so your immune system can fight to the best of its ability and save you from getting hospitalised or dying. Rest assured that vaccines are well researched, trailed and tested. Please see attached information for side effects. If you are known to have allergies to vaccines, please check with the provider before proceeding.

The vaccines in which the older population are advised to get are:

● Pneumococcal vaccine - This is a vaccine to prevent serious illness with a very bad chest infection caused by certain bugs called pneumonia, this is routinely provided from age 65 onwards.
● The flu vaccine - This is probably a vaccine you are most familiar with and protects against the flu virus every winter.
● The shingles vaccine - This is a virus that is common in the elderly population. It is the same virus as chickenpox, this is routinely provided between the ages of 75-79.
● The covid boosters and vaccine programme - Through the pandemic, we have sadly learnt that those who are older or have co-morbidities have a higher risk of dying with covid. You must stay up to date with current information and vaccine programmes for this. It will not stop you from catching the virus but will stop you from getting as sick from it, therefore it is crucial to still follow social distancing, hygiene and mask-wearing guidance.

Click here to book your flu or covid booster vaccine.