12:32pm Tuesday 1st December 2009
People at risk of swine flu or seasonal flu are being urged to get free vaccinations from their GPs.
NHS Sutton and Merton said the following priority groups should arrange an appointment: over 65s, asthma and diabetes sufferers, people with serious heart, chest or kidney conditions, pregnant women, people with weak immune systems and anyone who lives with a person with a weak immune system.
Dr Martyn Wake, GP and joint medical director of NHS Sutton and Merton, said: “Flu is much more serious than a cold. For those at risk it can lead to more serious illnesses such as bronchitis or pneumonia which may require hospitalisation.”
Dr Wake also advised older people should keep warm and avoid pneumonia by wearing plenty of thin layers.
Once priority groups have been treated, the swine flu part of the vaccination programme will be extended to children between six months and five years old.
• See our swine flu section for the latest updates
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