MP praises NHS-funded jabs

People are eligible for a flu jab if they are over the age of 65, are living in a long-stay residential care home, receive a carer’s allowance or have certain medical conditions.

Ms Dinenage attended Westminster Flu Day, where MPs were told about the impacts of not having a vaccination.

Westminster Flu Day is held every year, and is sponsored by the ABPI Vaccine Group.

The PPV vaccine protects against pneumococcal disease, which can result in pneumonia, infection of the blood or bacterial meningitis.

The Gosport MP said: ‘Having asthma means flu could be particularly nasty for me, so I always make sure to have my annual jab.

‘While I was pleased to learn that vaccination coverage across Hampshire is better than average, it’s worrying that fewer people at risk of developing complications from flu are having the vaccine.

‘I would urge anyone eligible for the NHS funded flu jab to take advantage of this, and protect both themselves and their families this winter.’

For more information about eligibility for an NHS-funded vaccination, go to nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccination.