FIFERS are being encouraged to sign up for their flu jab this year if they are eligible.

NHS Fife have said this is the most important year to get vaccinated due to the prevalence of Covid-19.

People with underlying health conditions and those aged 65 and over, are among the most vulnerable to the effects of flu and are offered a free flu jab.

This year for the first time those living in the same household as a person shielding during the initial response to COVID-19 are also entitled to flu vaccination.

NHS Fife Deputy Director of Public Health, Dr Esther Curnock, said: “Flu is often a very serious virus and with the ongoing risk of COVID-19, it’s more important than ever to get vaccinated against flu.

“It is vital that those who are eligible accept their invitation to be immunised and get protected ahead of peak flu season. The flu jab remains the safest and most effective way to help protect against flu and its complications and getting vaccinated takes only a few minutes.

A number of changes have been made to the delivery of flu vaccination this year. Rather than attend their local GP practice to get the flu jab, those eligible should have received a letter asking them to make an appointment to attend one of the many vaccination clinics taking place across Fife.

The new vaccination clinics are being held at community venues across the Kingdom and strict infection prevention and control measures are in place to protect those attending along with the healthcare staff running the clinics.