Flu can affect anyone, at any age, even healthy people!

There are some groups of people that will be at higher risk of developing additional complications and would therefore benefit from having the flu vaccination.

People aged over 65 years

The National Institute on Aging has stated that the immune system weakens as you age. Also, older adults are more likely have other health conditions that increase the risk for complications.

Pregnant women

Are at a greater risk of complications if they get the flu during pregnancy which may be linked to miscarriage, premature birth and smaller birth weight. It is recommended that pregnant women have the vaccine regardless of the stage of pregnancy. The vaccination reduces the risk of developing serious complications, such as pneumonia, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. It also provides the baby with some immunity to flu for the first few months after birth.

Underlying health conditions

Flu could lead to further complications if customers have the following health conditions:

• Chronic respiratory disease such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis or emphysema

• Chronic heart disease such as heart failure

• Chronic kidney disease

• Chronic liver disease such as hepatitis

• Chronic neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease or motor neurone disease

• Diabetes

• Problems with the spleen e.g. sickle cell disease or spleen removed (splenectomy) 

• Serious obesity with a BMI of 40 or above

• A weakened immune system

This list isn’t definitive, and although having flu is often uncomplicated for most, it may lead to serious complications for others.