Watch out, watch out – there’s flu about!

11th January 2019

Stockport’s residents are being urged to get their free flu vaccination if they are eligible because there’s been a sharp rise in the number of cases in the borough.

So far this January 40 people have been admitted to Stepping Hill Hospital with flu and health chiefs are keen to keep this figure as low as possible.

The virus can affect all age groups, however older people and those with an underlying health condition are more prone to suffering complications from it and becoming dangerously ill.

Mahu Reddy, Clinical Director and Consultant at Stepping Hill Hospital’s Emergency Department (A&E) said: “We had over 200 people admitted to hospital with the flu last year, and we really want to avoid that this season.

“Anyone can catch the flu, but for those who already have a chronic underlying health condition such as diabetes or asthma, it can be potentially life threatening and result in hospitalisation.

“If you’re eligible for a free flu jab, then please contact your GP or pharmacist to arrange it as soon as possible.”

This season’s flu vaccine is working well against the circulating strains of flu so it is the best defence you can get against it. There are still vaccines available at GP practices and pharmacies so it’s not too late to get yours.

The flu vaccine is available for free at GP surgeries and pharmacies for a number of groups of people including those 65 and over, all pregnant women and those with an underlying health condition like diabetes, severe asthma or heart, lung, kidney or liver disease.

Those with a weakened immune system or with a BMI over 40 are also get a free vaccination as do registered carers and paid carers (on production of their employers ID or payslip).

Children aged 2 and 3 and older children with an underlying health condition receive their nasal flu vaccination from their GP

For further information about the flu vaccine, visit www.nhs.uk/fluvaccine