With the flu season in full swing, the public is advised that City facilities do have vaccines available for vulnerable groups – in line with policies governing the public sector. These groups include the elderly and pregnant women.

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City Health took delivery of 18 500 flu vaccines at the beginning of May.

Vaccinations are available to specific groups, including:

· healthcare workers

· persons 65 and older

· persons with cardiovascular disease (including chronic heart disease, hypertension, stroke and diabetes),

· those with chronic lung disease (including asthma; chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and Tuberculosis)

· individuals living with HIV/AIDS

· pregnant women

‘The flu has been a hot topic in recent months. While most people can bounce back fairly quickly from a bout of flu, it does hold potentially serious complications for older persons or those with pre-existing conditions. So, if you are in one of the qualifying groups, please present to your nearest clinic as soon as possible, to get your vaccination before stocks run out. We do have to remind the public that, just like any other vaccine, the flu vaccine will not prevent you from getting flu, but will likely ensure a far milder episode should you contract the virus,’ said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia Van der Ross.

Flu vaccines are available free of charge at City clinics.

The public is urged to be mindful of hygiene habits at all times, particularly regular handwashing, and coughing etiquette, which advises that you cough into your elbow, instead of your hand.

Any person who is feeling unwell is advised to stay home as far as possible, or to wear a mask when venturing outdoors.

Supplied by: City of Cape Town and the Photo by CDC on Unsplash