Government Urged To Step Up Flu Awareness

GP leaders are deeply concerned that a major flu crisis is brewing this winter and are calling on the government to step up the public awareness campaign for seasonal flu immunisation.



GPs are reporting that fewer of their at risk patients are coming forward to be immunised this year and are concerned that, as a consequence, the regular seasonal outbreak could prove much more serious. 

The publicity campaign should encourage at risk patients to get immunised and highlight the risks of not doing so, says the British Medical Association (BMA).



Chairman of the BMA’s GPs Committee, Dr Laurence Buckman, has written to the Department of Health’s Immunisation Director in England, Professor David Salisbury, emphasising that if more people do not get vaccinated many at-risk patients will be left vulnerable and could become seriously ill.



He said: 

“Family doctors are already seeing high rates of influenza and they have been telling us that they are also seeing a lower uptake than usual for seasonal flu immunisation. Myths persist about the safety of the vaccine, especially after swine flu. The vaccine has been thoroughly tested and we strongly urge patients to make an appointment with their GP and get vaccinated. 



“Our message to patients is that it is not too late to get immunised. Most GP practices have vaccinations available and would be more than willing to immunise eligible patients.”



He added: 

“In a year when the government is hoping to make efficiency savings, leaving a larger proportion of the population vulnerable to contracting influenza risks far more serious spending implications in primary and secondary care. GPs will do what they can but we would urge the government to step up their publicity to highlight the safety and effectiveness of flu jabs.” 



(BMcN/GK)