THE MAYOR of Worcester is urging residents to take the plunge and have the flu injection to protect themselves against the common winter virus.
Coun Paul Denham visited his GP surgery last week to get the injection and warned city residents not to get caught out as he did when he caught flu before his holiday last year.
Although it is not possible to know which strains of flu will circulate each winter, health experts say the flu vaccination is the best protection against this unpredictable virus.
Many people are entitled to free flu injections, including those who are over 65, pregnant, receive a carer’s allowance or have certain medical conditions.
Coun Paul Denham said: “My wife and I caught flu just before we went on holiday last year – we were completely immobilised for about a week. This year, I was determined not to be caught out again.
“Flu is a really miserable virus to have – and it can have a severe impact on the local economy if there’s an epidemic. However with a little forward planning, flu is avoidable.
“I urge residents to book a flu jab at their GP now – or talk to their local pharmacist as many of them offer this service too.”
For more information about the flu vaccine visit www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccinations/Pages/who-should-have-flu-vaccine
