Patients who suffer with illnesses that reduce their immunity are at greater risk of serious complications from flu if they don’t have the vaccine.

They have a decreased resistance to infection and have to contend with infections that are generally more severe and can lead to additional complications.

It’s also important that the families or anyone who lives with someone with reduced immunity also has the flu vaccine to help limit the spreading the virus.

Flu is transmitted from person to person by airborne droplets formed during coughing and sneezing.  The droplets are then inhaled or land on mucus membranes (lining of the nose or inside of the mouth, or conjunctiva of the eye).

The flu incubation period is usually two days but can range from one to four days.  For most people flu only lasts a few days, but some people can become much sicker.  The risk is greater to anyone with existing long-term conditions. Vaccination is the best form of protection.  Flu vaccines are safe and effective and do not cause the flu.

The flu virus has the potential to change each year requiring a new vaccine to be created annually. This is why it’s important to have the vaccine every year.

Mr Matt Hayes, a consultant urologist who leads the Wessex Cancer Alliance said:

“The current sunny weather can be misleading when thinking about having flu vaccination. But now is the time to book your appointment with your GP or Pharmacist.

“I particularly want to highlight the increased risk to patients whose existing medical condition and treatment mean they already have a much reduced immune system.

“Patients being treated for cancer, liver disease, kidney disease or patients’ who have undergone splenectomy surgery, are at greater risk of more serious complications if they become infected by the flu virus.

“The vaccine is the best defence we have against the spread of flu, and now is the best time to book your appointment.”

ENDS

Notes:

1. Many GP Practices hold large flu vaccination clinics. It is best to find out dates and times by checking on Practice websites or by telephoning the Practice direct.
2. Participating community pharmacies also offer a service for patients eligible for the Free Flu Vaccine.
3. Full details of who should have the flu vaccine are available via this link to the NHS.uk website:  https://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccinations/Pages/who-should-have-flu-vaccine.aspx

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