Press release - 12 November 2009

People most at risk from swine flu encourage to make sure have the vaccination

People most at risk of developing complications from swine flu are being urged to have the swine flu vaccination when they are offered it.

Four priority groups have been identified by the Department of Health as those most at risk, and people in these groups are starting to be contacted by their GP.

The groups are:

• People aged over six months and under 65 years in current seasonal flu vaccine clinical at-risk groups;
• All pregnant women;
• Household contacts of people with compromised immune systems e.g. people living in the same house as patients who are receiving treatment for cancer.
• People aged 65 and over in the current seasonal flu vaccine clinical at-risk groups. This does not include otherwise healthy over 65s, since they appear to have some natural immunity to the virus.

Peter Wilkinson, Flu Director for NHS Brighton and Hove, said:

“It is vital we protect those most at risk from this virus. Although the majority of people in Brighton and Hove have so far only experienced mild symptoms, people in these groups have been identified because they have an increased risk of developing complications and becoming seriously unwell if they catch swine flu. We would encourage everyone in these groups to make sure they know about the vaccine and to have it when they are offered it by their GP.

“The swine flu vaccination really is your best defence against the virus, and not only protects you, but also your family and friends. If you are invited to have the swine flu vaccination, please take it.”

The majority of people in the four priority groups will receive their swine flu vaccination at their GP practice.

All GP practices in Brighton and Hove have now received their first delivery of the swine flu vaccine.

Peter added: “It is an ongoing programme so GP practices are staggering their invites to make sure the vaccine is ready and available for you when you are invited in. Please do not worry if you have not heard from your GP practice yet, you will be contacted in the coming weeks.

“In the meantime, if you are in an at risk group and have any particular questions or concerns about the vaccine please visit www.nhs.uk or contact your GP.”

More information can be found at www.brightonandhove.nhs.uk

Ends

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