The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) today launched its free flu winter vaccination programme in Northern Ireland.

People in 'at-risk' groups are the main target of a major advertising campaign, 'Catch the vaccine, not the flu', which is calling on people who normally receive the flu vaccination to take advantage of the free offer and protect themselves from a bout of influenza this winter. This year, for the first time, carers have also been added to the vaccination programme.

Launching the programme, DHSS Permanent Secretary, Dr Andrew McCormick, said: "Influenza is a potentially serious illness. It can kill. I hope that everyone who receives an invitation from their GP to be immunised will respond positively to it.

"I would also like to assure the public that medical expert advice is, that the vaccine will not give anyone the flu. I urge everyone, therefore, who is entitled, to contact their GP practices about an appointment.

Dr Lorraine Doherty, Senior Medical Officer at the Department of Health, referring to carers said: "This year for the first time people who are carers, are included in the programme, entitled to be immunised free of charge.

"I would therefore urge all those who regard themselves as the main carer of a physically disabled or elderly person, to make an appointment with their GP in the next few weeks with a view to getting the flu vaccine."

(MB/SP)