Ynys Môn Assembly Member Rhun ap Iorwerth is urging people aged 65 or over, carers, pregnant women and those with certain chronic or long-term illnesses to get the free flu vaccine to protect themselves and those around them.

Influenza, more commonly known as the flu, is a respiratory illness, affecting the lungs and airways, and is the result of an infection caused by an influenza virus. As influenza circulates each year in the UK during the winter months (generally October to April), it is sometimes called seasonal flu and results from slight changes to the virus from the previous year which means that some people who encounter the new virus may no longer be fully immune.

Speaking after receiving his flu jab by Community Pharmacy Wales today, Rhun ap Iorwerth said:

“I urge those in at risk groups to make an appointment with their local GP or go to their community pharmacy and get the free flu vaccine. It takes a minute, lasts a year and could save a life.”

A vaccine is developed for each season which is offered free to some children, everyone aged 65 and over, people in certain ‘at-risk’ groups who are more likely to develop complications as a result of having flu and also those who look after people at increased risk.

For more information about protecting yourself against flu, visit https://phw.nhs.wales/services-and-teams/beat-flu/