A GP is warning a lack of patients getting the flu vaccination in Nottinghamshire could lead to avoidable deaths this winter.
Last year’s figures saw winter mortality rates in the East Midlands increase by twenty-nine percent and there are fears that this year it could get even worse.
Flu can be fatal in some cases, especially in very young or old patients or those with weakened immune systems or breathing problems.
Dr Arun Tangri, of Riverlyn Medical Centre, Bulwell, said he had noticed less uptake in area among those entitled to free jabs this winter.
He said: “There’s a big risk here – these are patients who are more vulnerable.
“If they get the flu they can get into bronchitis and bronchial pneumonia, this could be fatal.”
He added some patients may be put off taking up the annual free jabs because of the milder winter making them think they are less likely to pick up a virus.
There have also been reports highlighting how last year’s vaccine was not as effective as hoped.
“It can be quite alarming – once patients are not immunised, that can be how you get epidemics of flu,” added Dr Tangri.
“People should get the jab at any opportunity until March I’d say. It’s much better for people to have it than not to have it.”
Who is entitled to a free flu jab?
You may be eligible if you are;
- 65 years of age or over
- are pregnant
- have certain medical conditions
- are very overweight
- are living in a long-stay residential care home
- receive a carer’s allowance, or you are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill
- are a front-line health and social care worker
