Flu jab warning as the cold spell moves in

AS the cold weather bites, people with respiratory conditions are being urged to have a flu jab.

The message coincides with World COPD Day 2018, which aims to raise awareness about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – a condition that causes thousands of additional admissions to hospital each winter.

COPD is a respiratory condition that makes it difficult to empty air out of the lungs because the airways have been narrowed.

It’s usually associated with long-term exposure to harmful substances such as cigarette smoke, or coal dust – often a legacy of industry in parts of the North of England.

Every winter, GPs and hospitals see an increase in visits from people with respiratory conditions. In the North of England, admissions to hospital for respiratory related illness rose by 110% between summer and winter in 2017/18.

Dr Penny Woods, chief executive of the British Lung Foundation, said: “Prevention is vital in protecting the most vulnerable in our society: Those with an existing lung condition, children, pregnant women and the elderly, to ensure they don’t get flu.

“It’s so important that those who are at greatest risk, and those who care for them, get a flu jab. We don’t want anyone to take a gamble with their health when an effective vaccine is available.”

Dr Mike Prentice, medical director for NHS England North, said: “When the temperature drops to below 8°C, many of us, especially those with long-term health conditions are at increased risk of falling seriously ill. Therefore, it’s important to heat your home to at least 18°C to stay well this winter.

“If you start to feel unwell, at the first signs of winter respiratory illness, even if it’s just a cough or cold, get advice from your pharmacist, before it gets more serious.”