Warrington Borough Council is urging residents to get the flu and Covid-19 vaccines if they are eligible.

The council said annual vaccinations will boost protection and reduce the risk of severe symptoms.

Parents in particular are encouraged to ensure their children are vaccinated against flu, with the NHS in the North West stating that school children have twice as much flu as any other group eligible for the vaccine.

Flu can be a serious illness, especially in young children, with symptoms ranging from fever and extreme tiredness to sore throat, dry cough, and a stuffy nose.

It can also lead to complications such as pneumonia or ear infections, which may require hospital treatment.

All school-aged children, up to and including year 11, are eligible for a free nasal spray flu vaccine.

The spray, delivered by local NHS school immunisation teams, is quick and painless.

By vaccinating children, parents are not only protecting them but also those around them, including vulnerable individuals such as babies and young children, older people, and those with certain chronic health conditions.

The flu programme started in September, and parents are being encouraged to ensure they sign and return consent forms on time to avoid their children missing out.

If there is any change of mind regarding consent, parents are advised to contact their child’s school.

Councillor Maureen McLaughlin, cabinet member for health, wellbeing, and social care, said: "I would like to remind all residents of the importance of vaccinations and encourage everyone who hasn’t had their winter vaccinations yet to do so.

"It’s our best defence against flu and COVID-19 during the winter."

The flu vaccine is available for people aged 65 and over, those with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, children aged 2 or 3, and school-aged children from reception to year 11.

Those who are the main carers for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance, and those living with someone with a weakened immune system are also eligible.

Those identified as being in high-risk groups for flu will receive an invitation from their GP practice for a free flu vaccine.

Pregnant women can arrange to have the vaccine at a local pharmacy or via their maternity care provider.

Individuals who do not meet the requirements for a free flu jab can request a vaccine from any participating pharmacy for a small fee, subject to vaccine availability.

The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for those at increased risk from the virus.

This includes people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, those aged 6 months to 64 years with an increased risk of severe illness from COVID-19 due to a health condition or treatment, care home residents, and frontline health or social care workers.

Some people may be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine through a local service, such as a community pharmacy or GP surgery, or a care home if they live in a care home.

Eligibility for both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be checked and appointments can be booked online.

Appointments are carried out at pharmacies and GP surgeries.