The number of people getting vaccinated for flu is on the rise, according to latest figures.
Based on information from Welsh GP practices, the uptake of vaccinations across Wales is 56.8% – up 4.6 percentage points on the 52.2% of 2010.
For people under 65 and classed as in a risk group, the numbers are also on the rise with 40.1% this year compared to 33.8% last year.
In the area covered by the Aneurin Bevan Health Board, which includes Caerphilly County Borough, the vaccine uptake for over 65s is 56.3% compared to 49.2% last year. For under 65s it is 41.9% against 34.1% last year.
Dr Tony Jewell, Chief Medical Officer for Wales, said: “It is encouraging to see a year-on-year increase in the number of people who have been immunised against seasonal ‘flu to date.
“However, we are only at the start of the season and there is a long way to go before the threat of catching ‘flu decreases. I would still urge people who are over 65, pregnant or in the ‘at-risk’ health categories to contact their GP and take up the vaccination. It is the best way to avoid catching and prevent the spread of this serious illness and sometimes fatal illness.”
The Welsh Government launched its annual seasonal flu campaign urging people over 65, pregnant women, those with long term medical conditions and people working in the health and social care services to make an appointment with their GP, and protect themselves and others against seasonal flu this winter.
Those eligible for the vaccine include:
- people aged 65 years and over
- pregnant women
- people of all ages (over six months for children) who have:
- serious breathing problems such as asthma or COPD
- chronic heart disease, such as heart failure
- chronic kidney disease, such as kidney failure
- chronic liver disease, such as hepatitis
- chronic neurological disease, such as Parkinson’s
- people with diabetes and;
- people with a suppressed immune system due to disease or treatment, such as cancer patients or those with conditions such as cystic fibrosis.
- People who live with others whose immune systems are compromised, such as cancer patients on treatment or people with HIV/AIDS. Those who are in receipt of a carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill.
- All frontline health workers
- Symptoms of flu include high fever, chills, headache, aching muscles, cough and sore throat.
- GP practises will be administering the seasonal flu vaccine. People should contact their local GP surgery to arrange to be vaccinated. Local pharmacists and NHS Direct Wales will be able to provide more information on vaccination and seasonal flu.