People urged to get flu jab

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PEOPLE at risk from flu are being urged to get their free jab.

Those aged 65 or over, pregnant women and people with health conditions such as severe asthma, chest or heart complaints and diabetes are being urged to protect themselves with the start of the flu season on its way by visiting their GP and getting vaccinated.

Although the vaccine does not give 100 per cent protection it means if you get flu it is much likely serious complications will develop.

The jab is also safe as it does not contain the 'live' virus, so cannot give anyone flu but mild side effects such as a slight temperature and aching muscles for a couple of days afterwards can occur.

The vaccine changes every year to match the fact the flu strain changes each season so even if someone had the jab last year it will no longer be effective.

Dr Ash Banerjee, public health consultant, urged people to arrange an appointment with their doctor as soon as possible to have the jab.

"Flu can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia, and can make existing conditions much worse. Flu can knock you off your feet and make it hard to look after the kids or go to work. In the most serious cases, seasonal flu might land you in hospital - it can even be a killer."

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