Merseyside above North West average for helping kick flu

Uptake of the winter flu vaccination in the region is above the North West average according to latest figures from NHS Merseyside.

Latest figures reveal that, between September and October 2011, two thirds (61.3 per cent) of those who are 65 and over and more than a quarter (25.9 per cent) of pregnant women have already followed their local health advice and taken advantage of their free vaccination.*

Knowsley residents have heeded advice the most, the borough boasted the second highest uptake among pregnant women (32.7 per cent) and was one of the top three boroughs in the North West for uptake of the flu jab among people aged 65 and over (66 per cent).

With the colder weather still due to kick in, NHS Merseyside is encouraging those people with underlying health conditions, or in at risk groups to get their free vaccination now.

Dr Anjila Shah, Consultant in Public Health at NHS Sefton, said: “Last year we had a particularly bad year for flu outbreaks, so we are delighted to see that Merseyside residents are taking health advice and having their flu vaccinations early.

“Our figures do show that there are still many people in at risk groups who haven’t had their free vaccination and we want to urge people to get themselves protected. It is important to remember that the flu vaccination takes about 10-14 days to take effect, so the message is simple; don’t wait until there is a flu outbreak this winter, if you are at risk, take advantage of your free vaccination as soon as possible to avoid spending Christmas in bed, or even in hospital.”

For more information about the winter flu and where you can receive your free vaccinations go to www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu