Source BBC: The over-65s vaccine will protect against three strains of flu, but people under 65, in the so-called at-risk groups, will be offered a vaccine that protects against four types of flu. At-risk groups include pregnant women and those with long-term health conditions.
Source BBC: The over-65s vaccine will protect against three strains of flu, but people under 65, in the so-called at-risk groups, will be offered a vaccine that protects against four types of flu. At-risk groups include pregnant women and those with long-term health conditions.
The enhanced vaccine that will be given this year contains extra ingredients designed to help aged immune systems develop a stronger defence against flu.
It is hoped the “adjuvanted vaccine” will help ease pressures on the health service.
Public Health England estimates the vaccine will lead to:
- 30,000 fewer GP appointments
- 2,000 fewer people needing hospital care
- 700 fewer deaths from flu
Prof Paul Cosford, from Public Health England, told the BBC: “This looks like it is going to be is a significant improvement and quite a step in our battle against flu each winter.” Read on.