Health chiefs are urging people in Wolverhampton with diabetes, liver or kidney conditions to protect themselves and get their flu vaccination as soon as possible.

Flu jab clinics are underway in GP surgeries, and people with diabetes, liver or kidney problems are among the priority groups for the free vaccine.

Nicola Benge, Public Health Consultant for NHS England, said: "Flu it not the same as getting a cold - it can seriously affect your health and the risks of developing complications are greater if you have certain pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney conditions.

"This can be prevented by having the vaccine, provided free at GP surgeries for people most at risk. If you haven't already been invited for a free flu jab, contact your GP to find out when they are holding clinics and make sure you look after yourself during the cold weather."

For more information, people should speak to their GP or local pharmacist, or visit Type=links;Linkid=3025;Title=NHS choices - Flu and the flu vaccine;Target=_blank;.

  • released: Thursday 14 November, 2013