The Mayor of Dudley has had the flu vaccine and encourages others to get vaccinated too in the fight against the highly contagious infection.

Councillor Andrea Goddard popped into Priory Pharmacy in Dudley to receive her free annual vaccine ahead of the winter season when the infection is at its peak.

People are eligible to have the flu vaccine if they have certain health conditions, are 65 years or older, are pregnant, or in long-stay residential care. People receiving carer’s allowance or living with someone with a weakened immune system are also eligible as are frontline health and social care workers.

Anyone eligible to have a flu vaccine, will get an invite from their GP. They can also go to a local pharmacy offering the vaccine, or some maternity services if they are pregnant.

A free nasal spray vaccine is also available to children who are aged two and three or at primary school or secondary school.

Parents or guardians of school pupils who are eligible will receive an electronic consent form, which they will need to complete to approve to their child getting the vaccine. Councillor Andrea Goddard, Mayor of Dudley, said:

"As the borough’s first citizen I am more than happy to lead by example in the fight against flu this winter. For health reasons I’m eligible for the flu vaccine every year, and always make sure I have it to help protect me and those around me.

"This is an important free service that is offered to thousands of people across the borough every year, and I would urge those who are eligible to get vaccinated.

"I'd also call out to parents and guardians of school children to look out for the consent form to ensure they can receive the vaccine in school."