Groups vulnerable to flu should make sure they receive a jab to ensure a healthy winter, the region's ambulance service has said.

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) is urging people to protect themselves.

Last year the flu season led to 107 deaths in the UK and affected thousands more.

John Martin, EEAST interim director of clinical quality, said: “For the majority of people who catch it, flu is really unpleasant, but for some it can lead to chest infections, severe complications and even death.

"It’s very important that those who suffer conditions such as asthma and diabetes, the elderly, and pregnant women, receive the flu jab in order to protect themselves from the disease.

“Even if you are not one of the people suffering from such conditions, you still may want to consider getting the flu jab to stop you developing the illness and infecting others who may be more vulnerable with it”

The ambulance service is also reminding people that there are alternative options to calling 999 during the winter period.

Mr Martin said: “Most cold and flu illnesses can be self-treated at home so make sure your medicine cabinet is well stocked. If you are worried about your symptoms then your pharmacist can be a great source of information, and you can also ring 111 for advice."

Flu advice is part of EEAST’s Wise Up For Winter campaign which is running over the next few months to help raise awareness with the public about what they can do to ensure they stay safe and well over the winter months.

The NHS offers free flu jabs to the following categories of people:

  • Pregnant women
  • Anyone with a long-term condition including diabetes, asthma, kidney disease, heart or chest problems
  • People undergoing medical treatment who may have a compromised immune system
  • People with a neurological condition such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or cerebral palsy
  • Everyone over the age of 65

Alternatively, the flu jab is available from most local pharmacists at a cost of approximately £12.