b'Looking after your healthAs well as keeping active, there are other things you can do to help you stay fit and well, such as taking advantage andwellbeing of preventative measures like flu and coronavirus We know that people value their independence, and(COVID-19) vaccinations, health checks and screening. most want to live at home for as long as possible.Flu vaccinations People who maintain their independence also benefitSeasonal flu is a serious infection which occurs in all from increased confidence and self-esteem, as well asparts of the world. The flu vaccine offers the best a sense of purpose and quality of life.protection against flu, and each year many people Looking after your health and wellbeing can help you tobenefit from receiving a free vaccine on the NHS. manage your day-to-day tasks more easily and meansThe vaccine is safe, effective and protects against an you are more likely to be able to stay living at home forillness that can be serious. If you are eligible, the NHS longer. In this section of the guide, you will find usefulrecommends that you have the free NHS flu vaccine information about the simple things you can do to makeevery winter to protect you and other vulnerable people. sure you remain as physically and mentally fit aspossible. You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you: West Sussex Wellbeing#are aged 65 or over; West Sussex Wellbeing is a friendly and impartial#have certain long-term health conditions; service that can support you to make improvements#are pregnant; to your health and wellbeing. Most of the services are#live in a care home; provided free or for a very small charge. Teams in your local area can provide advice and support on how to#are the main carer for an older or disabled person, make changes to improve your health and wellbeing,orreceive carers allowance; or such as stopping smoking, becoming more active,#live with someone who has a weakened losing weight and reducing the risk of falls. For moreimmunesystem. information, visit www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk.Speak to your GP or specialist if you have a health Maintaining a healthy bodycondition and youre not sure if youre eligible for a free There are many benefits of being more physicallyflu vaccine. active in our day-to-day lives. Increasing your activityFront-line health and social care workers can also get a levels will not only improve your physical health, butfree flu vaccine through their employers. also your mental wellbeing, helping you to lead a moreFlu vaccines are usually available from your GP enjoyable and independent life. practice. Your local pharmacy may also offer this People who exercise regularly feel fitter, are moreservice. For further information and to check whether relaxed, have more energy and lower their chancesyou are eligible for a free vaccine, visit the NHS website of developing a range of conditions, including heartat www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-problems, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression.vaccine. For more information about how you can Coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccinations increase your activity levels, visit The coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccines are safe and www.westsussexwellbeing.org.uk/getactive. effective. They give you the best protection against 6 Living well in your community 2025/26'