NHS England says patients with long term health conditions need a flu vaccine.
NHS England is calling on people with long term health conditions to make sure they have the flu vaccine as soon as possible.
Patients with asthma, diabetes, heart, liver, kidney or neurological disease are more at risk of becoming seriously ill from the virus than the general population.
Dr Ardiana Gjini, Screening and Immunisations Lead in B&NES, Gloucestershire, Swindon and Wiltshire said:
“Many people think of flu as just a bad cold, but if you have a long term condition you are less able to fight off the flu virus, which could make you seriously ill. Complications from flu, if you already have an underlying health condition, can be serious and result in hospital admissions and sometimes can be fatal. Patients should minimise the risk of complications by having the flu vaccination, which is free and easily obtainable from your GP or pharmacy. I would encourage everyone to do this as soon as possible to help you Stay Well This Winter.”
Flu is highly infectious and caused by viruses that spread from person to person. The viruses are constantly changing and this is one of the main reasons why people should be vaccinated annually. The symptoms, which can come on very quickly, include fever, chills, headaches, aches and pains in the joints and muscles and extreme tiredness.
Other groups at risk of complications from the flu and urged to get the vaccine include the over 65s, pregnant women and people with long-term conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, respiratory problems and liver disease. Those who care for patients suffering with serious conditions are also eligible to receive the free flu vaccination.
Dr Gjini added, “Patients with long term conditions need a flu vaccine to protect them against serious illness this winter. You can book your free flu vaccination with your GP or Pharmacist.”
Posted: 11/11/2017 19:15:18
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