Time to think about getting flu vaccination
AS the last glimmers of sunshine disappear from sight, it’s time to start preparing for the winter chills again.
On top of wrapping up warm in jumpers and scarves, you should think about getting yourself booked in for a flu vaccination, according to the ABMU Health Board.
Doctors from ABMU are appealing for people to protect themselves against the virus this winter.
People over the age of 65, women who are pregnant and very young children are most at risk of getting seriously ill from the flu.
Those who fall into these ‘high-risk groups’ should get vaccinated as soon as they can, according to the ABMU.
Dr Sara Hayes, ABMU Director of Public Health, said: “Flu is a nasty virus and affects people differently.
“Some people can carry the virus but have few symptoms.
“Others, who consider themselves fit and healthy can be hit for six by it and are unable to get up.”
“Having the flu vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from flu. Our greatest concern is for specific high-risk groups of people who if they catch flu can become so ill they need hospital care.
“Sadly, some people have even died because of it.
“This is why we provide a free flu vaccination and encourage those in a high-risk group to have their vaccination every year before the flu season begins.”
People with longstanding illness or conditions such as asthma, cancer, heart disease, liver disease or diabetes should also get the vaccine, they said.
Dr Hayes said: “Even if you only have a check-up once or twice a year for your condition you are still at a greater risk from flu.”
People in ‘high-risk groups’ should contact their GP surgery and go for their flu vaccination as soon as possible.
This year, the routine child nasal spray flu vaccination will be available free of charge to all children aged two, three or four at GP surgerys in Wales.