Health experts are reminding people who are under 65 and have long term health conditions to get the first jab in and beat flu this winter.

About 32,000 people in Cambridgeshire in this group did not get vaccinated during the 2013/14 flu season.

Free flu vaccination for groups at risk is available from GP practices and also from many community pharmacies in Cambridgeshire.

Other groups eligible for vaccination include the over 65s, pregnant women and for the first time, 2-4 year olds. For the younger age groups the vaccine is given through a nasal spray.

In addition to the groups already mentioned, flu vaccination is recommended for:

* Those in long stay residential or nursing homes

* Carers of elderly or disabled people

* Health and social care staff who are in direct contact with patients/clients

Linda Sheridan, public health doctor at Cambridgeshire County Council, said: “If you have a long term health condition, it’s vital that you get your free flu jab whatever your age.

“Being at risk from flu isn’t age related and we are concerned about the 50 percent of the under 65s with long term health conditions who don’t get a free jab.

“If you are in this group and don’t get vaccinated, you are putting yourself in a potentially life threatening situation by being at risk of catching flu, even if your condition is being well managed.

“Flu can be dangerous, can hospitalise and even kill. Family and friends can play their part in reminding those at risk to get vaccinated.

“If you are in one of the vulnerable groups, please contact your GP or one of the listed pharmacists to get your free jab at the earliest opportunity.”

Contact your GP for more information or visit http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vaccinations/Pages/flu-influenza-vaccine.aspx.

Pharmacies providing flu vaccinations: http://www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/download/downloads/id/3288/pharmacies_providing_flu_vaccines_on_nhs