October 8, 2014 9.10 am This story is over 113 months old

Lincoln residents encouraged to get flu jab early

Flu jab season: people at risk from complications if they get the flu are being encouraged to get their flu vaccination early.

Lincoln residents most vulnerable if they catch flu are being encouraged to get their flu jab early by Lincolnshire County Council.

For most people, catching the flu is unpleasant and can affect usual activities, but can be cured with rest within a week.

For a number of groups though, catching flu can have a risk of more serious complications.

These people are:

  • Older people
  • The very young
  • Pregnant women
  • People with a health condition, particularly chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease
  • People who have a weakened immune system

If you are one of these groups, you are legible for a free flu vaccination, as are all two to four year olds and carers.

Frontline health and social care workers should also be offered the vaccination through their employers.

Liz Morgan, assistant director for Public Health at Lincolnshire County Council says: “Flu is an unpredictable virus. It is impossible to know in advance how many serious cases there might be during the upcoming season.

“I would urge anyone in one of the at risk groups to protect themselves against the effects of flu. It’s also really important that carers and frontline health and social care workers get the vaccination to stay healthy and avoid passing the illness on to the people they care for.

“Even if you had a jab last year it’s important to have another one this autumn if you are still at-risk because new strains circulate each year.”

To find out if you are eligible for a free vaccination and to book your appointment, contact your GP.