Nigel attended Westminster Flu Day, a flu vaccine clinic held in the House of Commons, to encourage their constituents to get this season’s flu vaccine, as recommended by the Government.
Around 46% of at-risk people and 25% of people over the age of 65 in Lancashire were not vaccinated against flu last year, even though they were eligible for a free flu vaccine on the NHS. This compares to around 50% nationally of at-risk patients and 27% of people over the age of 65.
Almost 50% of people with a serious medical condition, 30% of people over the age of 65, 60% of preschool children, 45% of healthcare workers, 55% of carers known to GPs and 55% of pregnant women did not have a flu vaccine last year nationally, despite the fact that the consequences of not having a flu vaccine for these groups of people can be serious.
When asked about the flu, Nigel said,
“Seasonal flu is a highly infectious illness that can lead to serious complications, particularly for young children and the elderly. I would urge everyone who is eligible to receive a free flu vaccine on the NHS to go and get vaccinated.”
Jane Ellison MP, Public Health Minister added,
“This is a great opportunity for MPs and Peers to find out who in their communities is eligible for the vaccination and encourage greater take up. MPs can play a really helpful role in raising awareness in their constituencies.”