A WELSH charity is urging people with chronic lung conditions to get a flu jab - whatever their age.

The British Lung Foundation Wales claims that last winter, over half of people under the age of 65 in Wales with a respiratory condition missed out on getting a free flu vaccination.

Evidence shows that people with chronic respiratory conditions are around seven time more likely to die from influenza than people without a health condition. Influenza can also make a long term health condition worse.

Joseph Carter, Head of BLF Wales, said, ‘Influenza is a serious illness caused by a virus that affect the lungs and airways. Symptoms generally come on suddenly, and can include fever, chills, headache, cough, muscle aches and fatigue.

‘For people with a chronic lung conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) influenza can be deadly. The best way to protect against catching flu is by having the flu vaccine each year.

‘The vaccination also helps prevents the spread of the virus, so getting vaccinated helps keep you and those around you safe. So if you are a carer for someone with a chronic lung condition then you need to get vaccinated too’.

Diabetes UK Cymru have added to the call for more people to take up the offer of a ‘flu jab by reminding people who suffer from diabetes that their vaccination will also be free irrespective of age.