THERE is still time for eligible Warrington residents to get their free flu jab.

Vaccination data for the borough shows many residents who are pregnant or are under age 65 with long term health conditions have still not come forward for the vaccination.

Research from Public Health England (PHE) shows people are at a much higher risk of severe illness if they test positive for both flu and Covid-19, rather than just Covid-19 alone.

The flu vaccine, free to high risk patients, is more important than ever to help protect people from the twin issues of these illnesses.

Residents may be considered 'high risk' if they have a respiratory condition, such as asthma, diabetes, a heart condition, chronic kidney disease, liver disease or are overweight.

Conditions which come under the 'high risk' category also include neurological conditions, such as cerebral palsy or Parkinson's disease, a learning disability, problems with the spleen and a weakened immune system.

Cllr Maureen McLaughlin, Warrington Borough Council cabinet member for public health and wellbeing said: "It is vital that people take advantage of their free flu jab if they are eligible to do so, and it’s more important than ever this year.

"It’s especially important that women who are pregnant, or people who have a long term health condition, take advantage of the free flu jab, as they are more at risk of serious illness, particularly if they also contract coronavirus.

"We urge everyone to take flu seriously, especially this year, and please make sure that you get vaccinated if you are able to do so."

There is still time to get your free flu vaccine if you are at risk.

You can contact your GP practice, or a pharmacy that runs a flu jab clinic to be vaccinated.

For more information about the flu vaccine, visit nhs.uk/conditions/vaccinations/flu-influenza-vaccine.