Health update

Dear residents,

May is National Walking Month

Did you know? May is Living Streets National Walking Month when you are encouraged to #Try20 - and walk for 20 minutes each day.  Walking is an easy and accessible way to improve physical and mental health and a 20-minute walk can reduce the risk of developing some health conditions, including certain cancers, depression, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. By swapping a short drive for a short walk, you can help reduce air pollution, congestion and road danger - whilst saving yourself some money and getting active in the process! Wirral offers a fantastic mix of coast and countryside which is perfect for outdoor adventures. Check out the #Try20 tips here.

Monkeypox update

Monkeypox cases continue to be investigated in England with confirmed cases in London. While the current outbreak is significant and concerning, there are no known cases in Wirral and the risk to the UK population remains low.

For further updates visit GOV.UK

Get vaccinated over the half-term break

Whilst I am sure that young people and their parents or guardians are looking forward to enjoying a well-deserved break this half term, I would encourage our young people to get vaccinated to help keep themselves and their communities safe. Having the vaccine is key to protecting everyone from the impact of the COVID-19 virus and will protect their education from further disruption and keep their learning on track.   

If you're aged 16 or over and had your second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at least three months ago, you are now eligible to get your booster dose. 

If you're 75 or over, live in a care home or are 12 or over and have a weakened immune system you can now book an extra Spring booster jab. You can have the booster six months after your last dose. 

Parents and carers of 5-11 year-olds can book a COVID-19 vaccination for their children at local clinics. This will help reduce infection rates at schools and offers them the best protection against COVID-19. Having a COVID-19 vaccine also helps to reduce the risk of missing out on additional opportunities like school trips, plays, sports matches and cultural activities that benefit wider development. 

Book an appointment now or find a walk-in centre for your first, second or booster dose.

As always, thanks for helping us Keep Wirral Well - and please look after each other.

Julie