ELDERLY people and others most at risk of getting flu are being reminded by North West health chiefs to get themselves immunised.

Professor John Ashton, Regional Director of Public Health, said: "If those at risk have not yet had a flu jab they must put it at the top of their list of things to do this winter. We need to make sure that everybody in a risk group is immunised. Flu may not be a problem for most healthy people, but it can cause serious complications for others.

"Thousands of people die each winter from flu-related diseases. It is vitally important that those at risk do all they can to protect themselves. If you are in a risk group and have not yet been immunised, please contact your doctor for advice."

Flu is caused by a virus and can be spread by coughs and sneezes. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, cough and aches and pains, but flu can lead to serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia.

Immunisation against flu is recommended for people suffering from chronic respiratory disease, including asthma; chronic heart disease; chronic renal failure; diabetes; lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment.

Immunisation is also recommended for people aged over 75 and those in long-stay nursing and residential accommodation where influenza may spread.

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