HOMELESS people can now get free flu vaccinations this winter under expanded NHS rules.
Anyone aged 16 or over who is sleeping rough or staying in homeless hostels or night shelters now qualifies for a free jab.
The move aims to protect people at greater risk of serious illness from flu.
Dr Matthew Sweeting, executive medical director at NHS Essex, said: "Being ill with flu is horrible enough when you have a safe, warm place to rest and recover.
"For someone who doesn't have a place to call home, getting ill can be particularly difficult, and the consequences can be much more serious.
"This year, for the first time, people who are sleeping rough or staying in homeless hostels or night shelters can get a free NHS flu vaccination, regardless of whether they would previously have qualified."
Dedicated flu vaccination clinics for homeless people will be held in Southend on November 12 and Grays on November 24.
Attendees do not need to be registered with a GP or have a permanent address to receive the jab.
Dr Sweeting said: "We want to make sure people know this protection is available and that getting vaccinated is as straightforward as possible.
"The dedicated clinics in Southend and Grays offer a welcoming and supportive environment, with no judgement and no need to be registered with a GP.
"It's simply an opportunity to protect yourself against what can be a very serious illness."
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Eligible people can also get their flu vaccine at participating pharmacies, GP practices and outreach services.
The change recognises that homeless people face extra health risks and are more vulnerable to flu complications.
More information about flu vaccinations and eligibility is available at www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/.
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