8,600 put their own lives at risk

NEARLY 8,600 older people in Warrington failed to have ‘flu jabs last year – putting themselves at risk of serious illness or even death.
Now health chiefs are urging people aged 65 and over to take up the offer of free ‘flue vaccine this winter.
The offer is also open to young people in certain “at risk” groups.
NHS Warrington warns that those who do not have the jab are at risk of ‘flu and could develop serious complications.
GP Practices across Warrington have set up ‘flu clinic in their practices and are encouraging their patients to and have the vaccination now.
GPs are also urging more of those in the ‘at risk’ group to protect their health and get themselves down to local surgeries as soon as possible.
A spokesman said: “The clocks go back tonight and the days are getting shorter. We are well on our way to winter. For those at risk of developing potentially fatal complications from ‘flu, getting the free jab before the winter sets in is vital.
“The flu vaccine doesn’t contain any live virus, so it cannot give you flu.
“In addition, help to avoid spreading germs to others, and picking them up yourself, by always carrying tissues, covering your cough and sneeze with a tissue, disposing of the tissue after one use, and cleaning your hands as soon as you can.”
More details are available from GPs, nurses and pharmacists or from the website www.nhs.uk/flu