VULNERABLE people across York and North Yorkshire are being urged to get their free flu jabs.

The local NHS health trust has launched its annual campaign to raise awareness of the importance of at-risk patients being vaccinated against the virus this autumn.

GP practices across the county are offering free flu jabs to people over 65 and those with certain long-term health conditions.

Last year, just under 50 per cent of people who were most at risk of becoming seriously ill if they caught the virus chose not to be vaccinated.

Jill Wass, flu co-ordinator and public health nurse at North Yorkshire and York Primary Care Trust, said: “The aim of the immunisation campaign is to target people to whom flu poses a high risk to their health.

“We are urging those at greater risk to get their flu jab from their GP. By getting immunised, we are significantly reducing this risk.”

As part of the national Influenza Immunisation Campaign for 2008/09, everyone over 65 is eligible for a free jab.

People with serious heart and chest complaints like severe asthma, serious kidney or liver disease, diabetes, lowered immunity and people who have suffered a stroke can also get one.

Ms Wass said: “Most people with flu do not need to see a doctor as it’s a ‘self-limiting’ infection, meaning the body normally fights off the infection without medical treatment.

“The symptoms usually clear within four to ten days.

“However, for some people flu can be serious. When the symptoms are severe, people should contact their doctor if they are elderly or frail, or if they are caring for a child whose symptoms do not improve within 48 hours.”

The PCT’s advice for people with flu symptoms is:

* Take paracetamol, or cold and flu remedies – these are available from your local community pharmacist who will be happy to advise you.

* Stay at home, get plenty of rest and avoid strenuous activity.

* Drink plenty of fluids – water is best.

* Always use tissues to catch your coughs and sneezes.

* Always put tissues straight in the bin as germs can live on them for several hours.

Wash your hands frequently as they can transfer germs to every surface you touch For more information about free flu jabs and who is eligible, people should contact their practice nurse, GP, health visitor or school nurse.

More information is available at immunisation.nhs.uk