DOCTORS across Malvern are encouraging people aged 65 and over to get their flu vaccination this winter.
They should ask their GP, practice nurse or pharmacist about getting the free annual flu vaccine.
Older people are more likely to become seriously ill if they develop flu, and could even have complications like pneumonia if not vaccinated.
So it’s important they speak to a health professional to receive their vaccine.
Other groups of people who are deemed at risk of developing serious complications from flu, and who are urged to get vaccinated are pregnant women, people with long term health conditions, such as asthma and diabetes and young children.
Dr Carl Ellson, Strategic Clinical Lead for the three Worcestershire CCGs, said: “It’s important that as many people as possible get vaccinated to help stop the spread of flu.
“For the majority of healthy adults flu is unpleasant and inconvenient, but they will begin to feel better usually within a week.
“Some people, however, are more likely to have a bad case of flu and develop serious complications such as a chest infection.
2In a small number of cases, flu can cause patients to become critically ill and even die from the infection.
“The flu vaccine is free, safe and offers protection for a whole year.If you’re eligible for the vaccine, make sure you get protected as soon as you can.”
Anyone aged 65 and above or who is in one of the other at risk groups is asked to arrange a free flu vaccination by contacting their GP surgery or local pharmacy.
Visit www.nhs.uk/staywell for more information.
