Stocks of the flu vaccine are now in place in Northern Ireland and ready to be administered to "at risk" groups.
The flu campaign is aimed at all those in vulnerable groups to ensure they take advantage of the vaccine on offer and so that they are better prepared to fight off infection. The campaign runs from October to December.
In highlighting how important it is for people to receive the flu vaccine ahead of the virus arriving in Northern Ireland over the winter, Dr McBride said, “Flu can be a serious illness affecting all in the vulnerable groups. It is essential for people to receive the latest vaccine and to receive it well in advance of any outbreak.
“I encourage everyone who receives an invitation from their GP to be immunised, to respond positively to it, in particular those aged over 65.”
People in 'at-risk' groups include:
- Those over 65 years old – even if they feel fit and healthy
- Children and adults who suffer from any of the following:
- chronic heart conditions
- chronic chest conditions eg asthma
- chronic liver disease
- chronic kidney disease
- diabetes
- lowered immunity due to disease or treatment such as steroids or cancer therapy
- any other serious medical condition.
- Children who have previously been admitted to hospital with a chest infection
- Carers (who are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person) and people who live in a residential or nursing home.
This year a new group has been added to the list of those with ‘at risk’ medical conditions – people with certain neurological conditions such as stroke, multiple sclerosis and inherited diseases of the nervous system. Not all patients in these categories will require immunisation and GPs will determine which patients are most likely to benefit.
Northern Ireland’s flu immunisation programme is now in its seventh year. 2006/2007 saw a take up rate of 70% of over-65s and 60% for those under-65 in ‘at risk’ groups. These figures exceed the targets set for Northern Ireland and represent a significant public health achievement.
Notes to Editors:
- There is no issue regarding the supply of vaccinations for Northern Ireland as all stocks have been purchased centrally from three different suppliers. GP's will be inviting patients in staged groups according to their level of risk.
- The launch of the winter flu vaccination coincides with Age Awareness Week.
- Patients should expect to receive a letter of invitation from their GP surgery. If they have any queries they should contact their GP directly.
- This programme has been running very successfully in Northern Ireland sustained very high levels of immunisation coverage in our ‘at risk’ population.
- For further information, please contact Sarah Williams at the DHSSPS Press Office on 028 9052 2841 or 07791 149246. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.
