The Department of Health is urging those who are at risk of developing complications of flu to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine offers protection against three of the most common viruses responsible for flu. Since the flu virus changes every year, a new vaccine is produced, based on the strains of the virus likely to cause flu. Last year’s vaccine will not be effective against this year’s flu strain and all those eligible need to receive the new vaccine for this year. Minister for Health, David Anderson MHK said: “It’s hard to believe a year has gone by since the Department’s last campaign to highlight the importance of the flu vaccine began. This is of course an annual campaign as the prevalent strain of flu varies from year to year, so it’s a constant battle to keep those who are vulnerable to flu vaccinated and safe. The message is simple: if you’re at risk of flu this winter, get vaccinated as early as possible - all you need to do is contact your GP Surgery.” The flu vaccine is proven to be safe, effective and reduce complications of flu including the need for hospital admission. The most common cause of flu last year – the H1N1 flu virus - produced severe infection in pregnant women, based on this evidence pregnant women have now been added to the risk group for a second year. Dr Parameswaran Kishore, Director of Public Health said “Last year many patients left it too late to get vaccinated against flu resulting in a slight shortage of flu vaccine availability. We overcame the shortage by re-distribution. I would urge anyone in the eligible group to receive the vaccine as early as possible.” How effective is the vaccine? The 2011/12 Winter Vaccine offers 70-80% protection against becoming infected with the flu virus. In the elderly, flu vaccination has led to a reduction in pneumonia, hospital admissions and death rates. Summary of those who are recommended to have the seasonal flu vaccine: • everyone aged 65 or over • everyone under 65 years of age (including children, and babies of six months and older) who has any of the following conditions: - a heart problem - a chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis or emphysema - a kidney disease - lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment) - a liver disease - had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA) - diabetes - a neurological condition, for example multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy - a problem with your spleen, for example sickle cell disease, or you have had your spleen removed. • all pregnant women, at any stage of pregnancy • everyone living in a residential or nursing home • everyone who cares for an older or disabled person • Any other serious medical condition – please check with your GP When is the best time to vaccinate against flu? The best time is between October and early November. - ENDS -