© 2006 -
Flu Jabs are provided FREE of charge to the following groups;
- The over 65s (or those celebrating their 65th birthday before the 31st March 2008)
- Diabetics (whether diet, tablet or insulin controlled)
- Chronic Heart Disease (eg. Ischaemic Heart Disease, Angina, Heart Failure)
- Chronic Chest Disease (eg Asthma & Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
- Chronic Kidney or Chronic Liver Disease
- The Immunocompromised (eg those on steroids, immune suppressants or with cancer)
- Carers for the elderly and other vulnerable groups
Flu is a highly infectious illness which spreads very rapidly through coughs and sneezes of people who are already carrying the virus. Influenza (flu) is caused by influenza viruses. There are three types of influenza virus: A, B and C. Influenza A and B viruses cause virtually all of the clinical illness. The symptoms of influenza C infection are usually mild. Flu occurs every year mainly during the winter months. Anyone can get flu but it is more serious for people aged 65 years and over and people of any age with a chronic medical condition, particularly chronic respiratory and cardiac disease.
Flu immunisation (flu jab) gives you good protection from flu and lasts for one year. The vaccine is normally available in the autumn and is made from the strain of flu that is expected in the coming winter. In order to remain protected, you need to ensure that you have a flu jab every year.