Luton PCT

6 January 2011, 15:40 | Updated: 6 January 2011, 15:42

We have recently asked GPs to check their stocks of the seasonal flu vaccine and most practices have reported a sufficient amount.

We have recently asked GPs to check their stocks of the seasonal flu vaccine and most practices have reported a sufficient amount.

A small number of practices have reported that they require further supplies following a recent rise in demand for the vaccine. We are now working to support our practices in sharing any surplus vaccines so that they can be moved to where there is a need for them.

This year, for the first time, all pregnant women are being offered the seasonal flu vaccination. This is because it protects against the H1N1 virus (swine flu) that is still circulating, and pregnant women who catch this strain are at an increased risk of developing serious complications.

Everyone aged 65 and over is routinely offered the jab, as are younger people with long-term conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, asthma, certain neurological conditions, serious kidney and liver disease. Anyone of any age who does have a long term health condition and pregnant women are at increased risk of more serious illness as a result of the complications of flu and therefore it is important that these people do go to their GP surgery for a vaccination at the earliest opportunity.