Flu jab farce: It’s only 40% effective for at-risk patients

THE flu jab is less than 40 per cent effective for adults in high-risk categories, health officials have admitted.

Figures from Public Health England show that the vaccine is only 39 per cent effective in adults with chronic, longterm conditions such as asthma, heart disease, lung problems, diabetes and kidney failure – high-risk patients.

Although these figures are low, they are remarkably better than last year – where the vaccine was only 12 per cent effective for these same patients.

But figures show that the vaccine is highly effective – 87 per cent – in those aged between two and 17.

At the moment, there is no data for the over-65s. But, sadly, the jab tends not to work as well for older patients.

Dr Mary Ramsay, head of immunisation at Public Health England said: ‘It is encouraging to see that this year’s vaccines are offering a high level of protection against the main circulating strain of flu – particularly for children. Children tend to be “super spreaders” of flu and so protecting them is crucial for protecting the rest of the population,’ he added.

‘We’re pleased that more parents have been taking up the offer of vaccination for their children and encourage anyone who is eligible to do so every winter. It’s the best defence we have against this unpredictable virus.’

Health Secretary Matt Hancock praised the benefits of immunisation, saying: ‘The most basic instinct for any parent is to do whatever they can to protect their child. Vaccinations save countless lives and are absolutely vital.

‘More children have been vaccinated this year to protect against flu and it is a positive sign that the vaccine itself appears to be more effective than in previous years.’

He added: ‘Our world-leading vaccination programme saves lives and I urge all parents of young children to make sure their child is vaccinated against flu and other childhood diseases.’

‘It’s the best defence we have’