Free flu jabs (From Gazette Series)

Free flu jabs

PEOPLE over the age of 65 are being urged to get their free flu jabs.

Many people across South Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire, including those who are particularly at risk, have not yet had their free flu jab this year.

Director of public health for Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Strategic Health Authority Ruth Hall said some people were more susceptible to the disease.

She said: "If you are 65 years or over or if you suffer from illnesses such as asthma, diabetes or serious heart or kidney disease, receiving a jab is particularly important because you are more vulnerable to the effects of flu.

"People with these conditions may not be able to fight off flu as effectively, meaning that the infection could lead to more serious illnesses including bronchitis or pneumonia, and could result in hospitalisation or even death. It could also make any existing condition worse.

"Those at risk from the effects of flu need to get a flu jab every year. The best time is in autumn before flu starts to circulate. It only takes a minute to get the jab, and it will protect you for a period of 12 months. Flu jabs are available from your local GP, so make an appointment today."

Thousands of deaths are linked to flu every year. Flu tends to last for up to two weeks and the main symptoms are fevers, chills, extreme fatigue and aching muscles as well as the more cold like symptoms like sore throats and runny noses.