HEALTH experts throughout Worcestershire have once again reminded older people, pregnant women, parents of young children and other vulnerable groups of the importance of getting a flu jab.

Public Health England this week launched its winter vaccination programme, offering free vaccinations to those over 65, pregnant women, children aged between two and four and patients with long-term health conditions.

Last winter 904 people were admitted to hospital in the UK as a result of flu – almost 100 of whom died.

Chief clinical officer for NHS South Worcestershire Clinical Commissioning Group Dr Carl Ellson has thrown his support behind the campaign, saying: “Flu is not just a bad cold.

“It can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses, especially for the elderly and those with long term or chronic conditions.

“In the worst cases flu can result in a hospital stay and it can even kill.

“The vaccine is the best possible protection against the flu virus.

“Even if you have had the vaccination before, the types of virus in circulation change every year, as does the vaccine, therefore it is important that you get the jab every winter.”

Symptoms of flu can include a high temperature, a sudden cough, headaches, feeling cold and shivery, aching muscles, limb or joint pain, a sore throat, running nose, sneezing, loss of appetite, diarrhoea or an upset stomach.

Last year saw the introduction of a nasal spray vaccination for young children, allowing them to be vaccinated without the need for a needle.

Medical director at West Midlands Ambulance Service Dr Andy Carson, who has been a practising GP for many years, urged anyone concerned they were at risk of the disease should speak to their GP.

“Whilst many people think they’re suffering from the flu more often than not it’s just a bad cold,” he said.

“For most healthy people, there’s no question that flu is unpleasant but with good self-care, you can start to feel better after about a week.

“Flu is often underestimated and for older people, the very young, pregnant women and those with a chronic respiratory or cardiovascular health condition it can sometimes be very serious.

“People with underlying health conditions in particular are 11 times more likely to end up in hospital if they catch the flu.”

The best way to treat flu is to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use over-the-counter painkillers.

For more information on getting a flu jab visit www.nhs.uk/flu.