Paralympian steps up for flu jab in Astwood Bank (From Redditch Advertiser)

Paralympian steps up for flu jab in Astwood Bank

8:30am Thursday 18th October 2012 in News

A PARALYMPIAN was leading the way for flu jabs, when she visited Astwood Bank this week.

Katrina Hart, who won a bronze medal in the 4x100m relay at the London 2012 Paralympics, was in the village, launching the NHS Midlands and East flu campaign at Ridgeway Surgery.

The 22-year-old suffers from cerebral palsy, which puts her at greater risk of contracting the flu, and she’s eligible for a free flu jab, along with people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, and those with long term health conditions such as severe asthma, chest or heart complaints, liver or kidney disease and neurological conditions and diabetes.

She said: “This summer I was lucky enough to be selected to represent Team GB at the Paralympic Games, on home soil in London. Being at greater risk of serious complications from flu, the flu jab for me is a must and helps to make sure I stay protected, well and able to continue to be at the top of my game.”

Dr John Cowburn from Ridgeway Surgery added: “If you’re in any of the ’at risk’ groups, the flu jab is completely free and is a safe way of protecting you and your family in a matter of minutes. Our practice exceeded the national average for vaccinating those with long term conditions under 65 last year. We have set our sights even higher this year and aim to vaccinate all patients in this at risk group.

“The best time to be vaccinated is at the start of the flu season from October to early November, so it’s good to get in early and get flu safe in time for the winter.”

For more information on the flu jab, speak to your GP or local pharmacist, or visit nhs.uk/flu.