Health bosses urge people to get the flu jab

With temperatures expected to drop over the coming week over people in those groups above who have not yet received their free jab are being encouraged to do so before the weather worsens and the level of flu circulating in the general community increases.

Individuals who are eligible for a free flu jab may have received a letter from their GP encouraging them to visit their surgery in order to get protected.

If you have not already responded to that letter or have not received one but you are in one of groups mentioned above it is not too late to protect yourself against the flu.

The flu jab is offered free of charge to individuals who have a high risk of catching flu, such as those aged 65 years or over, pregnant women and those with long term health problems.

Individuals who have a high risk of catching flu are 11 times more likely to develop serious complications, such as pneumonia and brain infections, if they do get the flu.

Fiona Jorden, screening and immunisation Lead, from NHS England South Yorkshire and Bassetlaw, said: “We want to encourage everyone aged 65 and over to get their flu jab – it’s free for them and is effective against the flu strains circulating this winter.”

“Even if you’ve already had a flu jab in previous years, you need another one this year. This is because the viruses that cause flu change from one year to the next.”

“Getting vaccinated before the weather turns more wintery will help older people to avoid going out in difficult conditions and will help them stay well throughout the winter.”

If you are in one of the at risk groups and have not yet had your free flu vaccination, call your GP to book an appointment.