PEOPLE in Bromsgrove who a vulnerable to the flu are being urged to get a free jab now.

The annual Department of Health flu immunisation campaign was launched in Bromsgrove on Monday.

It is aimed at people who could become very ill after a dose of the flu or who could suffer serious complications or even death.

Residents and parents of children who are at risk from flu are being urged to make an appointment with their GP to claim a free jab.

Those at risk of flu include anyone with asthma, diabetes, a serious heart, chest or kidney condition, as well as all people aged 65 or over.

Parents of 'at risk' children are being singled out this year as figures reveal a particularly low take up from this group in the past. In fact, last year, nationally only half (51 per cent) of parents of these children protected them with a flu jab.

The vaccination takes two minutes and is claimed to be safe, painless, effective and free for those who are at risk. You can claim your free flu jab if you:

l Are aged 65 or over

l Have a serious illness, including heart or respiratory conditions such as asthma, kidney disease, diabetes or lowered immunity

l Live in a long-stay residential or nursing home

l Are a carer for the elderly or anyone deemed to be 'at risk'

Dr Bill Borastero, a GP and chairman of the professional executive committee for the Redditch and Bromsgrove Primary Care Trust, said: "Anyone can get flu, but it can be more serious for people of any age with a serious medical condition and the over 65s.

"With between 3,000 and 4,000 deaths each year attributable to the complications of flu, the message is clear - don't wait until there's an epidemic: contact your local GP or practice nurse now and get your flu jab before the winter arrives."

Dr Borastero added: "We are urging those at risk to get a flu jab - even if they had one last year. The influenza virus is always changing, so last year's vaccine won't protect you."

Last year, Redditch and Bromsgrove practices achieved 'good' performance, with an uptake rate of 73 per cent, compared to the national figure which was 71 per cent.