Flu is starting to circulate and very young babies, pregnant women, older people and those with a long term health condition are most at risk of developing complications if they catch flu.
Those most at risk of complications are recommended to have a flu vaccine every year. If any of the following apply to you, you are at increased risk of complications from flu even if you feel healthy, and it’s important you have a flu vaccine:
- Diabetes
- A heart problem
- A chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including asthma that requires regular steroid inhalers or tablets
- Kidney disease (from stage 3)
- Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment
- Liver disease
- Had a stroke or mini stroke
- A neurological condition
- A problem with your spleen
- Higher body fat (Body Mass Index of 40 or above- adults only)
Ros Jervis, Director of Public Health at Hywel Dda UHB, said: “If you are eligible for a flu vaccine and haven’t had it yet this winter, it’s not too late to help protect you against flu.
“Complications from flu can lead to serious illness, or even death. The people around you should also have annual flu vaccination to help protect them from spreading flu.”
For more information about the flu vaccine please visit www.phw.nhs.uk/beatflu
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