EAST Lancashire residents have been urged to get their flu jab before an expected Christmas and New year peak in influenza cases.

The warning has come from NHS national medical director Professor Stephen Powis, Public Health England’s medical director Prof Yvonne Doyle chief medical officer Prof Chris Whitty.

They have welcomed the fact that more people over the age of 65 have got their flu jab than this time last year.

But they warned that hundreds of thousands could see their holidays turn to misery if flu levels rise as expected in late December and early January.

Current evidence shows that vaccinations available this year are well-matched to the main strain of flu.

Prof Powis said: “It’s good to see that more people over the age of 65 have already got their jab. For older people and those with underlying health conditions, getting flu is particularly bad news because it can lead to really serious conditions like pneumonia and bronchitis, which can mean a lengthy stay in hospital."

Prof Whitty, said: “The winter flu season has started early and it is important that everyone who is eligible gets the flu jab from their GP or pharmacist. The vaccine is the best defence against flu whilst practising sensible hygiene can reduce the spread of flu.”