Complacency towards flu and not getting the vaccination when eligible to do so could lead to a significant increase in the number of people being admitted to hospital this winter. ?That is the stark warning from doctors across Bath and North East Somerset who fear many people at risk of developing serious complications as a result of flu will put off getting the flu vaccine.

Dr Ruth Grabham, Medical Director, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire CCG, said: “As a GP, I’ve seen the devastating effects flu can have and while most people recover through paracetamol and bed rest, others can find themselves in hospital, usually in intensive care with a very serious case of pneumonia. ?If you have never before had the flu jab but are eligible, now is the time to have it, not least to protect yourself and your family, but to protect the NHS, which is gearing up for what could be a very busy winter period.” ?

Dr Grabham’s call to action comes as the region continues to fight against coronavirus, which – like the flu virus – is particularly harmful to the most vulnerable people in society. ?As with coronavirus, the most effective way of stopping the spread of flu is to practice good hand hygiene and to take extra care to catch coughs and sneezes in a tissue.