PENSIONERS and people with chronic chest complaints are being urged to have a flu jab this winter.
Dr Sohail Bhatti, director of public health for Huddersfield Central and South Huddersfield primary care trusts, said: "Flu is not a severe cold. It can be a serious illness.
"If you are over 65, or in one of the at-risk groups, such as people suffering from chronic heart, lung or kidney disease, flu can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
"Anyone suffering from one of these chronic conditions, or who is over 65, should contact their GP surgery to arrange an appointment, or find out if there is a special flu vaccination clinic."
Huddersfield's GP-led primary care trusts are backing two national campaigns to help protect older people and those with chronic conditions, from the effects of winter flu.
The Health Department's flu immunisation campaign particularly encourages people with chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes, as well as all those 65 and over, to protect themselves against flu by having their free jab.
* The Keep Warm Keep Well campaign offers a free phone helpline, the Winter Warmth Advice Line (0800 085 7000) and a free Winter Guide, which contains tips on keeping warm and staying healthy.
It also outlines cash help to help people heat and insulate their homes in cold weather.
Dr Bhatti added: "As the weather gets colder, people are more likely to catch colds or flu.
"If your body temperature drops the risks of a heart attack, stroke or breathing difficulties increase.
"This is especially true for older people or those with a chronic illness," he said.
"The best way to combat winter ailments is to keep yourself and your home warm and follow as healthy a lifestyle as possible, including eating a balanced diet and getting some regular exercise".
Copies of the Winter Guide are available from the Winter Warmth Advice Line, Freephone 0800 085 7000.
Copies will also be available from local doctors' surgeries.
