There are 13 adult haemoglobinopathy centres operating across the Midlands. These centres offer coordinated care for patients living with red cell conditions. Hover your mouse over the "Adult Services" menu tab to learn more about services offered and view useful information about sickle cell and thalassaemia.
Flu vaccinations:
You can have a free NHS flu vaccine if you:
• are aged 65 or over (or will be by 31 March 2026)
• have certain health conditions
• are pregnant
• live in a care home
• are a carer
• live with someone who has a weakened immune system
• Frontline health and social workers can get the vaccine through their employer
Read more at www.nhs.uk/flujab
Children and young people: The child flu vaccine is available for 2-3-year-olds, those aged 6 months to 17
years with some long-term health conditions, and 4 to 16-year-olds who are offered vaccination in school.
Parents of 2 to 3-year-olds can arrange their child’s vaccination at their child’s GP surgery or find a pharmacy.
Children with long-term health conditions can also be vaccinated at their GP surgery. Read more at
www.nhs.uk/child-flu
How to get your flu vaccination:
• Contact your GP surgery
• Book a pharmacy appointment on the NHS App or online at www.nhs.uk/book-flu-jab (18+ only)
• Find a pharmacy at www.nhs.uk/flu-pharmacy (18+ only)
• Can’t get online? Phone 119
Information brought to you by: NHSE’s National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme NHS England » National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme
Thalassaemia and self-care during winter
Three simple tips:
Try to avoid infection, wash your hands with soap and water regularly.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people when possible and ensure all your vaccinations are up to date.
Make sure you take your medicine as advised and attend all your check-ups.
Information brought to you by: NHSE’s National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme. NHS England » National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme
Sickle cell and self-care during winter
Three useful tips:
It is important for people with sickle cell to look after their own health using self-care measures, such as by avoiding triggers and managing pain. Drinking plenty of fluids and staying warm can help prevent painful episodes.
Cold weather can trigger a sickle cell crisis so it is important to keep warm as much as you possibly can.
Avoid extreme temperatures – you should dress appropriately for the weather and avoid sudden temperature changes, such as swimming in cold water.
Information brought to you by: NHSE’s National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme. NHS England » National Healthcare Inequalities Improvement Programme