DoH Release on the importance of the flu vaccination for those in adverse groups
MILLIONS MAY BE AT RISK OF FLU THIS WINTER
Over 65s and "at risk" people urged to get free flu jab
Ignorance over the difference between the common cold and the potentially much more serious flu virus could be putting millions at risk of serious health complications this winter, according to new research commissioned by the Department of Health as part of its annual flu immunisation drive.
The study revealed that the seriousness of flu is grossly misunderstood by Britons, with 1 in 3 (34%) confusing the flu with a 'heavy cold', despite the fact that thousands in at-risk groups of all ages – not just older people - die as a result of complications following the virus each year.
The research, which was commissioned by the Department of Health to support its annual flu immunisation campaign, aims to raise awareness of the potentially serious complications that flu can cause in 'at-risk' groups of all ages. While nearly two thirds (61%) were aware of the risks for older people, 1 in 4 (24%) did not know that it can be potentially fatal for people under 65 suffering from serious conditions such as diabetes, asthma and heart complaints. It is estimated that about four million people in England under the age of 65 fall into a high-risk category, making them eligible for a flu jab.
Professor David Salisbury, Director of Immunisation for the Department of Health, comments, "The research shows that common colds are frequently confused with flu, but for some, the flu virus can be potentially life-threatening. We are urging those at greater risk – including people suffering serious heart problems, asthma and diabetes – to get their flu jab from their GP. Last year, only about 45% of those under 65 in at-risk groups had the jab. The flu jab can literally save lives."
Backing the campaign, GMTV's Dr Hilary Jones commented, "Despite what the vast majority think, older people are not the only ones at risk of serious consequences from flu and people with risk factors should ensure they get the jab. I would urge anyone suffering from a heart, chest or respiratory condition or other serious long-term condition to get their jab before winter sets in."
"The best way to avoid catching flu if you're at risk is to get immunised. Other practical tips to avoid spreading germs include always carrying tissues, covering your mouth when you cough as you can."
What the experts say:
Libby Dowling, Care Advisor at Diabetes UK, said, "People with diabetes are a high risk group when it comes to getting flu, so it is crucial that people with the condition are vaccinated this winter. Having flu can really upset diabetes control and cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate. This can leave people with diabetes open to many health problems including complications of flu such as pneumonia and bronchitis. People with diabetes qualify for a free flu jab."
June Davison, Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation (BHF) said, "Flu can cause inflammation in our blood vessels and can go on to trigger a heart attack or stroke in people at increased risk. People considered to be at increased risk are those who already have heart or circulatory disease. Heart patients are offered the flu jab for free. We strongly recommend they take up the offer to protect themselves against this potential killer."
Vikki Knowles, Asthma UK Clinical Lead, says: "Over 5 million people in the UK have asthma and for 90% of them, colds and flu trigger their asthma symptoms, meaning that having the flu is a major concern. We recommend that anyone with asthma discusses the possibility of having a flu jab with their GP really as soon as possible, before the virus begins to circulate."
At-Risk Groups who are eligible for the free flu jab are those with:
• Serious heart or chest complaint including asthma
• A stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA)
• Serious kidney disease
• Diabetes
• Serious liver disease
Your GP may also advise you to have the jab if you have:
Lowered immunity following disease or treatment (including steroid medication and cancer treatment)
Multiple sclerosis
You need a new flu jab each year because the virus changes each year
Up to 15% of the population develop flu each year. Flu has specific seasons, and peaks in winter each year between December and March.
Flu: Fact Vs Fiction
Statement Fact or Fiction?
1. The flu vaccine gives you flu
Fiction. The vaccine contains no live virus, and can't give you flu
2. Walking around with wet hair will give you flu
Fiction: A lower body temperature can affect your immune system, but you have to be exposed to the flu virus to catch flu
3. Flu is just a really bad cold.
Fiction. Colds are much less severe than flu, which can take weeks to recover from, and can potentially be life threatening
4. Only old people are in danger of complications from getting flu
Fiction. Anyone can get flu, but people under 65 who have various conditions including diabetes, heart disease and asthma are more at risk of developing serious complications from the virus. People who are aged 65 or over are also more at risk from complications should they get flu
Notes to editors
Research conducted by ICM Research on behalf of the Department of Health among 1057 UK adults between 19th-21st September 2008.
