'˜At-risk groups should get flu vaccination,' says Portsmouth GP

This includes people who have a learning disability who can be more susceptible to the effects of flu and at risk of developing complications like bronchitis or pneumonia.

GP practices and community pharmacies have started their pre-winter programme of carrying out vaccinations.

Carers of anyone with a learning disability can also have a free flu jab.

Dr Andrew Holden, a Portsmouth GP, said: '˜We would urge everyone entitled to have a free flu vaccination to take up the offer as soon as possible. It is particularly important for people in certain clinical 'at-risk' groups.'

Other people who can get free flu vaccinations include those over 65, pregnant women, children between two and 10 and those with a serious medical condition.