As Summer comes to an end and we welcome in Autumn, many people will be thinking about getting their annual flu jabs in anticipation of ‘flu season’ over Winter. This includes a high proportion of the TSC community, many of whom may fall into the categories eligible for free flu jabs. However, the eligibility and suitability of different flu jab options may be different depending on how TSC affects you. This year, there are also additional factors to consider regarding covid-19.

If you get flu and coronavirus at the same time, research shows you’re more likely to be seriously ill, meaning that it is very important to get the flu jab if you are eligible. This year, eligibility for the free flu vaccine has been extended to those who live with someone who is at high risk from covid-19, as well as people who:

• are 65 and over (including those who’ll be 65 by 31 March 2021)
• have certain health conditions
• are pregnant
• are in a long-stay residential care
• receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
• are frontline health or social care workers

If you are affected by TSC or live with someone considered at high risk from the worst effects of covid-19, the TSA strongly recommends that you speak to your GP or TSC clinical expert to discuss the flu jab and your eligibility and suitability, as this will depend on factors including existing health conditions, medical history and medications.

More information is available on the NHS website here.