The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging all those in ‘at-risk’ groups, who have not yet been vaccinated against flu, to get the jab now. The advice is being given because flu is circulating later than normal this year with cases occurring within nursing and care home settings in recent weeks.
While there have been high uptake rates of the vaccine this year, there are still a small number of ‘at-risk’ people who have not yet received the free vaccine.
Newly pregnant women and the elderly, who are more likely to develop serious complications as a result of flu, are being reminded in particular of the importance of protecting themselves against the virus.
Dr Richard Smithson, Consultant in Health Protection, PHA, said: We are continuing to see seasonal flu cases, particularly in nursing home settings. This reflects the fact that the virus is still circulating in the community. Receiving the seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and others from getting the virus. So, if you are in an ‘at-risk’ group, get the vaccine now – it’s still not too late. There are plenty of stocks of flu vaccine available.
