Questions and debates over vaccinations have started spreading in Leeds as flu and other seasonal illnesses become more prevalent.
Unlike minor illnesses, such as the common cold, the flu is known to be fatal to hundreds of people each year, and on the back of the pandemic, some fear that mortality rates may keep increasing as they have done since lockdown.
The debate over vaccinations will likely spike as communicable diseases continue to spread, but those who choose to get protected in Leeds have the option of multiple walk-in surgeries as well as beauty shops such as Superdrug.
Some members of the public who’ve recovered from serious illnesses, like meningitis, in the past are entitled to free vaccinations against the flu.
This was true for a representative of the Meningitis Now charity, who said, “When I had meningitis, I had the flu as well so I had to be segregated on the ward. I’m mindful of it and I get a free vaccination and I usually take them up on that, we get a voucher and take that to Superdrug.”
His colleague went on to say, “It’s one of those things where people think it’s just like a cold, but when you have it, you know about it and it takes a while to recover”.
On the discussion of whether to vaccinate or not, opinions varied.
The Lord Mayor of Leeds, councillor Al Garthwaite, said, “People over a certain age or whose health means they are especially at risk should get a vaccination, as I have done. Otherwise, observing usual health precautions like regular and thorough hand washing, avoiding being coughed or sneezed on by others (as far as possible) and similar are all good methods of self-protection.”
Another member of the public said, “It’s my choice” and disagreed when asked about the government pushing for people to be vaccinated.
