Reduce the risk - get your flu jab
As we creep into autumn, seasonal flu becomes a reality. Far more serious than a cold, flu is highly infectious and spreads easily from person to person. Symptoms can hit you suddenly and severely and usually include fever, chills, headaches, aching muscles and sore throat.
Some people are more at risk from flu and need the vaccine because they are not able to fight it off as easily as others. It can often result in serious complications, hospital treatment or more devastating consequences. If you fall into one of these at-risk groups, you should protect yourself with the flu jab, free of charge:
• people aged 65 or over
• all pregnant women
• people with long-term health conditions who have:
• diabetes
• a chest problem or breathing difficulties (such as asthma, bronchitis or emphysema)
• a heart problem
• kidney disease or liver disease
• a neurological condition (such as Parkinson’s, motor neurone disease or cerebral palsy)
• a low immune system due to disease (such as cystic fibrosis or Crohn’s disease) or treatment (such as chemotherapy)
• previously had a stroke
• a problem with the spleen (such as sickle cell disease) or if the spleen has been removed.
You should also have the vaccine if you:
• live in a residential or nursing home
• are a main carer.
If you fall into one of these categories then you should make an appointment with your GP practice to get vaccinated. Likewise, if someone you know is in the at-risk category, please remind them of the importance of getting their jab to protect themselves and their loved ones.
For more information click here NHS Choices - Flu Vaccination
