Minster urges flu vaccine uptake as winter-ready campaign launched

Older people are being encouraged to get the flu vaccine as the Government launches its winter-ready campaign providing practical advice for households to get through the cold months ahead.

Six ministers launched the campaign, calling on people to stay safe on the roads, to look after their health, and to protect against sickness during the winter months.

Health Minister Simon Harris said: “I would like to take this opportunity to again encourage all those in at-risk groups to get the flu vaccine now, as it can take up to two weeks to take effect. The vaccine reduces the risk of influenza as well as reducing hospitalisation and mortality in older people.