PEOPLE in Gwent who are considered to be particularly vulnerable to influenza are being urged by a Welsh health chief to get their annual injection.
The move follows a fall across Wales last year in the vaccination rate against 'flu among people aged over 65.
The target is a 70 per cent vaccination rate for people in all groups entitled to a 'flu jab on the NHS. But despite increases in previous years, last year the uptake among over-65s fell from 68 per cent to 64 per cent.
In the 'at risk' groups of people under 65, mainly those suffering with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease, uptake varied from 63 per cent in those with diabetes to 27 per cent among people with neurological conditions.
Overall, more people in the 'at risk' group are getting an injection - 42 per cent in 2007/08 compared with almost 28 per cent in 2005/06 - but there remains much room for improvement.
'Flu can be a dangerous virus, resulting in several days of debilitating illness, and in severe cases people can be admitted to hospital or even die.
"'Flu can make you very ill indeed and can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia. Fortunately, the risk from 'flu is reduced by routine vaccination," said Dr Tony Jewell, Chief Medical Officer for Wales.
"Everyone aged 65 and over should contact their local GP surgery to arrange their 'flu jab. All those others who are younger but with conditions such as heart or lung disease, making them eligible, should book in for their 'flu jab before the winter gets underway as January is the most common time for seasonal 'flu."
People in the “at risk” category include those with: a chronic heart or chest complaint, including asthma; chronic kidney disease; diabetes; lowered immunity due to disease or treatment, such as steroid medication or cancer treatment; and other serious medical condition - people should check with their doctor if they are unsure.
Information and questions and answers on 'flu are available through the Assembly's Keep Well This Winter website at www.kwtw.org.uk
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