Islanders are being urged to get vaccinated against flu and Covid viruses by their local NHS after a rise in people visiting the emergency department with flu over Christmas.

The Isle of Wight NHS Trust has seen high numbers of patients with flu over the festive period.

Patients are asked to attend alone or with one other person only, to reduce the spread of infection.

Laura Neal, director of nursing, Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “We are seeing high numbers of people in our emergency department, particularly with flu.

"Islanders can help reduce the spread of infection by getting vaccinated, reducing contact with others and washing hands regularly with soap.

“If you do need to come to the emergency department please come alone or bring one other person only. This will really help our teams and reduce the spread of infection.

“People can support their local hospital by only attending the emergency department if it is an emergency. If you think you need medical advice and are not sure where to go then please visit NHS 111 online or call NHS 111 for advice first. Your GP surgery and local pharmacy are also on hand to provide support for a number of illnesses."

People are also being invited to health and wellbeing events across the island throughout January where they can get seasonal vaccinations, have their blood pressure checked, and discuss their overall wellbeing.

The events will offer advice on lifestyle choices, including support for weight management, quitting smoking, and managing stress.

The St Mary’s Hospital Vaccination Hub in South Block is also offering flu and Covid vaccinations for eligible individuals on a walk-in basis on Tuesdays and Thursdays in January.

The hub will be open from Monday, January 6, until Thursday, January 30, and will then close until spring.

Eligible individuals include anyone aged 65 and over, adults with severe immunosuppression, and carers and close contacts of people with severe immunosuppression.

Further information about eligibility can be obtained from the NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight Covid Vaccination Helpline on 0300 561 0018.

The health and wellbeing events will be held at various locations around the Island.

On Tuesday, January 14, the event will take place at Better Days Café, 64 High Street, Ventnor, from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

The Apex, St Faith’s Church, Cowes, will host the event on Thursday, January 16, from 11.30am to 2.30pm.

Shanklin Methodist Church Hall will be the venue on Monday, January 20, from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

The Lord Louis Library, Newport, will host the event on Wednesday, January 22, from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

East Cowes Library will host the event on Thursday, January 23, from 12.30pm to 3.30pm.

The Broadway Centre, Sandown, will be the venue on Tuesday, January 28, from 10.30am to 1.30pm.

Finally, Wootton Bridge Community Centre will host the event on Thursday, January 30, from 1pm to 4pm.

Light refreshments will be available at all events.