Older people in Northamptonshire and their carers have been urged to get ‘flu safe’ with a free flu jab to help protect them this winter.
Dr Olufunke Adedeji,public health consultant at NHS Northamptonshire, said: “If you are over 65, it is vital to get a flu jab, to protect you at the time of year when you are most vulnerable.
“Flu is not just a bad cold. It can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia, or can make existing conditions worse. In the worst cases, the flu can result in a stay in hospital, and it can even be a killer.”
The flu jab is free to anyone over the age of 65 and is the best possible protection against the virus.
Carers of elderly people are also advised to get vaccinated to avoid passing it on to the person they care for.
The best time to get the jab is at the start of the flu season from October to early November.
Flu is a highly infectious illness caused by a virus. The types of virus in circulation change every year as does the vaccine; therefore it is important that those over 65 have the jab every winter. The flu jab does not contain live viruses and cannot give you flu.
To get the jab contact your GP to arrange a convenient appointment.
For more information visit the NHS Northamptonshire website.
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