Over 5 million Britons with asthma are eligible for a free flu jab every winter. It has been reported that 23 percent of that group of people are not getting the vaccination and from recent surveys patients suffering are playing ‘Russian Roulette with their life.
Most people with asthma say that having a cold and the flu are the main trigger for their asthma attacks. Unfortunately, there are many myths about having the flu jab such as it giving you the flu and making you worse when having the vaccine. It has been researched that getting the flu jab will not give you the flu, with hardly any side effects and it can save your life. One third of people were worried about the side effects it could cause and 27% of people were unsure whether it will actually work.
Charities have encouraged people with asthma to go ahead and get your FREE flu jab as soon as possible to stay protected as it can take up to two weeks to be completely effective from viruses.
Flu jabs are free for over 65’s, children, pregnant women and anyone with a chronic illness such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes. NHS staff are also advised to get the flu jab to protect against the virus whilst around vulnerable patients.
