Local MP Sheryll Murray got her Flu Jab with her partner Bob Davidson to remind people to get their flu jab in Westminster this week.
Sheryll Murray MP said “As a doctors receptionist for over twenty years I know what a problem this is each year. Influenza is a highly infectious disease and it is important that as many people as possible get vaccinated each year especially those at risk.
“The consequences of having flu for certain groups of people, such as people with a medical condition, pregnant women, children and people over the age of 65 can be serious. I would therefore urge everyone who is entitled to a free flu vaccine on the NHS to go and get vaccinated.”
Bob Davidson, who suffers from asthma, added “Having spent time in hospital in the past I urge those people who are more susceptible to serious complications to get their jab”.
Around 47% of at-risk people and 29% of people over the age of 65 were not vaccinated against flu last year in the local area, even though they were eligible for a free flu vaccine on the NHS. This compares to 47.7% nationally of at-risk patients and 26.8% of people over the age of 65.1
The consequences of influenza can be fatal and there were estimated to be 11,000 deaths from flu in the UK in the 2012/13 flu season. It is estimated that in excess of 6 million working days are lost in the UK due to seasonal influenza every year. Flu can put a considerable burden on NHS resources, with numerous GP consultations and hospitalisations. In England and Wales, influenza accounts for over 400,000 general practitioner consultations annually. In England, elderly respiratory hospital admissions during epidemics of influenza cost the UK health service over £22 million every winter.
The Department of Health (DH) recommends free flu vaccinations for those aged 65 or over; and for people with certain chronic conditions such as respiratory disease (including asthma); heart, renal, liver or neurological disease; diabetes; low immune systems; as well as people living in long-stay facilities such as nursing and residential homes, and carers of elderly or disabled people. Healthcare professionals are also encouraged to have the vaccination, as well as pregnant women and children aged two, three and four.
Almost 50% of people with a serious medical condition, 25% of people over the age of 65, 60% of pre children and 60% of pregnant women did not have a flu vaccine last year in England, despite the fact that the consequences of not having a flu vaccine for these groups of people can be serious.
Whilst Bob is eligible for a free seasonal flu vaccine on the NHS both he and Sheryll made a £10 donation to the Disasters Emergency Committee. £10 is equivalent to the cost of a private vaccination.
ENDS
Contact: Sheryll Murray MP 01579 344428
Pictured: Sheryll and Bob at the flu vaccination.