HAMPSHIRE County Council is encouraging those at risk of catching flu to take up their vaccination this autumn – as immunisation remains the most effective protection against influenza.
Councillor Patricia Stallard, Executive Member for Health and Public Health, explains: “Those who catch flu pass it on to two people on average, putting our most vulnerable at an increased risk.
“It is important that these vulnerable groups are protected, and I would encourage those who are eligible, to take up the free flu vaccine.”
The NHS offers the flu vaccine free of charge to those individuals most at risk from catching flu and developing serious complications.
This includes anyone who is the main carer for an elderly or disabled person at home, pregnant women, the over 65s and others with certain existing health condition such as diabetes and asthma.
And this year the nasal vaccine is being offered to children aged two to four years old, those in Hampshire school years 1, 2 and 3, as well as those with a long-term health condition.
In addition to the flu vaccination, everyone can reduce their risk of getting flu or passing it to others through good hygiene.
Using tissues when coughing or sneezing, and putting used tissues in the bin and washing hands regularly, all helps stop infection spreading.
And those who do get flu are advised to stay off work, or school, to avoid spreading the infection.
For more information visit the NHS website www.nhs.uk and got to the NHS Choices web pages Flu and flu vaccine and What to do if you have flu