Scott Mann has attended Westminster Flu Day, a flu vaccine clinic held in the House of Commons, to encourage North Cornwall constituents to get this season’s flu vaccine in line with Government recommendations.
Parliamentarians who would not be eligible for a free seasonal flu vaccine on the NHS made a £10 donation to the Carers Trust. £10 is equivalent to the cost of a private vaccination.
People in a risk group, such as pregnant women, people who are immunosuppressed and people with an underlying health condition such as liver disease and heart disease, are at significantly increased risk of dying as a result of flu.2 Every year, an estimated 12,000 people die from seasonal influenza in England and Wales. 3 Flu is the most frequent cause of death in pregnancy2 and very occasionally a child may die from flu.4
Scott said:
“The best way to help protect yourself against the flu is to get the flu vaccine. 54% of at-risk people and 31% of people over the age of 65 in Cornwall were not vaccinated against flu last year, even though the consequences of not having a flu vaccine can be serious.
"This compares to around 55% nationally of at-risk patients and 30% of people over the age of 65. I would urge everyone who is entitled to a free flu vaccine to go and visit their GP or pharmacist.”
Nicola Blackwood MP, Public Health Minister added:
“Make sure you get your flu jab this winter.
"People often get the flu in winter and it can lead to more serious illnesses and even death, so it is good to protect yourself”.
Helen Donovan, Professional Lead for Public Health Nursing at the Royal College of Nursing said:
“People in certain groups, such as pregnant women, people who are immunosuppressed and people with an underlying health condition such as liver disease and heart disease, are at significantly increased risk of severe complications and dying as a result of flu.”
Gail Scott-Spicer, Chief Executive of Carers Trust said:
“If you’re the main carer for an older or disabled person, we recommend that you ask your GP or pharmacist for a free flu jab this winter.
"Being an unpaid carer is tough, and coming down with the flu can make it almost impossible to look after someone.”
Westminster Flu Day is an established event in the Parliamentary calendar. It is sponsored by the ABPI Vaccine Group in partnership with the Royal College of Nursing and Carers Trust and with the support of the Department of Health and Public Health England.
