Don’t get caught out by flu this year
POTENTIAL flu victims are being reminded to get themselves protected from the potentially devastating effects of the illness after new figures revealed only half of pensioners in Derbyshire have had their flu jab – compared to around 63 per cent this time last year.
And although take-up of the jab has risen by nearly five per cent in pregnant women in the county compared to this time last year, many people at highest risk remain unprotected.
Now doctors are calling for more high risk people to get themselves vaccinated. For those in an ‘at risk’ group, which includes the over 65s, the under 65s with a long-term medical condition and pregnant women, the flu jab is free.
Dr Bruce Laurence, acting director of public health for NHS Derbyshire County and Derbyshire County Council, said: “Flu is a highly contagious infection that anyone can catch. Flu is not just a cold – it can be a really serious illness for some people and it doesn’t just affect older people.
“Having the jab is really straightforward and safe, and it is not possible to catch flu from having the jab as there is no live virus in the vaccination.”
Anyone in the target groups should contact their GP to book a flu jab appointment.
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Weather for Buxton
Wednesday 22 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 3 C to 13 C
Wind Speed: 20 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Light showers
Temperature: 4 C to 9 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: North west
