Many at risk from flu across the borough

Councillor Robinson receives her annual flu vaccination from Dr Duffy

Only 50 per cent of residents aged under 65 and at risk of catching the flu have taken advantage of their free flu vaccination - leaving many across the borough vulnerable, according to recent results.

In light of these results, the NHS and Rochdale Borough Council are urging at-risk residents to make sure they act and get their free vaccination. 

Dr Chris Duffy, Local GP and Clinical Commissioning Group Clinical Chairman, said: “Common colds are frequently confused with flu, but flu can be life-threatening, and will generally require weeks of recovery time.

“Those in at risk groups are at greater risk of developing serious complications from the virus, including death.

“The jab is very safe and effective; you can not catch flu from the jab.”

Dr Duffy concluded: “I would recommend anyone; pregnant; at any stage, under the age of 65 with underlying health conditions, which includes heart problems, diabetes, asthma and chronic bronchitis; or aged 65 years or over to make an appointment with their GP or one of the nine local accredited pharmacist’s for your free jab if you haven't already."

Councillor Linda Robinson, Cabinet Member for Adult Care, Health and Housing has shown her commitment to the national flu programme and as someone living with asthma, recognises the need to have her flu jab annually.

Councillor Robinson said: “People shouldn’t underestimate how unpleasant flu can be and getting the flu vaccination is a vital step towards protecting yourself. It’s really important that residents who are at risk get their vaccinations.

“This includes anyone who is pregnant, carers of an elderly or disabled person, frontline health or social care workers, aged over 65 years, and also those under the age of 65 that have a medical condition, like me, as a sufferer of asthma. Don’t delay – book in for your flu jab today.” 

The best way to avoid catching flu is to have the jab. In addition the Department of Health recommends we practice good hygiene, including hand- washing and covering a cough, to protect against the virus.

Patients now have more choice on where they can receive their free flu vaccination as NHS Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale have tripled the number of pharmacies providing flu vaccinations this year.