Flu outbreak still hitting Stockport

Health and social care chiefs in Stockport are warning residents of a significant increase in the number of flu cases in the borough and surrounding areas.

The flu virus is affecting all age groups, particularly older people, and another wave of flu is expected as the weather gets colder.

It is not too late to get vaccinated and the NHS recommends the flu vaccine for anyone in an at risk group 6 months and older. Flu vaccination reduces flu illnesses and can prevent flu-related hospitalisation admissions.

Residents eligible for a free flu vaccine include:

Individuals aged 65 year or over

  • Pregnant women
  • Children aged 2, 3 & 4
  • Chronic respiratory disease (e.g. severe asthma, obstructive pulmonary disease, bronchitis)
  • Chronic heart disease
  • Chronic liver disease
  • Neurological disease
  • Diabetes
  • A weakened immune system, due to disease (such as HIV/AIDS) or treatment (e.g. cancer treatment)

Dr Viren Mehta, a local GP and Clinical Director of Stockport CCG, said “We have seen a big increase in the number of flu cases and people being admitted to hospital with flu complications.

“The majority of these are people who haven’t had the flu vaccination this season. The evidence suggests that this year’s flu vaccine offers good protection against the strains of flu that are currently circulating.

“If you have been invited by your GP for a flu vaccine, but haven’t yet had one, it really isn’t too late and we would still advise people to contact their GP practice and get themselves protected.”

For further information about the flu vaccine, visit www.stockport.gov.uk/fluvaccinations.