PENSIONERS in Dwyfor and Meirionnydd have been urged to get vaccinated against influenza early this winter.

The annual ‘Beat Flu’ immunisation programme is now underway throughout NHS Wales offering free vaccine to individuals most at risk of serious complications from flu.

Older people, and the carers of those whose health may be at risk if the carer becomes ill, are being targeted about the dangers of flu with a clear message to “Beat flu before it beats you”.

Last year in Wales only two thirds (68 per cent) of those aged 65 and over were vaccinated.

Siobhan Jones, a Public Health Consultant in North Wales said: “Last year 29 per cent of people over 65 year olds living in North Wales who were eligible for a free winter flu vaccination didn’t receive it.

“Flu can be largely prevented by a simple, safe and effective vaccination each year so we are encouraging everyone over the age of 65 to make an appointment and beat flu before it beats you”.

The vaccine is offered free of charge via GPs and some community pharmacies for all those who are 65 years and over or ‘at risk’ because of long term underlying health problems.

Flu is a serious and can make already existing health conditions worse, can lead to a hospital stay, or even death.

The flu virus spreads easily via droplets which are sprayed into the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes.

Direct contact with contaminated hands or surfaces can also spread infection.

It can spread rapidly, especially in closed communities such as hospitals, residential homes and schools.

For further information, visit www.beatflu.org