People with health conditions urged to get flu jab (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

People with health conditions urged to get flu jab

8:10am Wednesday 17th October 2012 in News

PEOPLE with conditions such as severe asthma, diabetes or a chest or heart complaint are being urged to get a free flu jab.

Last winter, almost half the population deemed to be at most risk from flu did not get the jab.

Dr Ash Banerjee, public health consultant for NHS Worcestershire, said: “People with health conditions are used to managing their health and taking precautions. However, many do not realise the risk that flu can pose to them.

“Flu can knock even the healthiest people off their feet for a couple of weeks but getting flu when you already have a health condition can lead to serious complications and it can even be a killer.

“Unlike other medication for long-term health conditions, the flu jab is an annual one-off vaccine. The flu vaccine changes every year to fight the latest strains of flu, so even if you had a jab last winter you need another one this year to stay flu safe.”

He added: “Please don’t underestimate flu. Make an appointment with your local GP surgery and get your jab now to protect yourself all winter long. The flu jab is completely safe and doesn’t carry the live flu virus so it can’t give you flu.”

Dr Jonathan Leach, Medical Director for NHS Worcestershire, said: “Getting flu when you already have a health condition can be devastating to both your health and your family life.

“Unlike people with no underlying health condition who can treat themselves at home, often people suffering from flu with a long-term condition will need transporting into hospital for treatment.”

He added: “I urge anyone with a health condition to get the jab to help them stay out of hospital and have a happy, healthy winter.“