HYWEL Dda University Health Board is reminding people with long term health conditions to protect themselves from flu this year.

Having some health conditions puts people at more risk of complications if they catch flu.

Conditions that put people more at risk include diabetes, heart, liver and kidney disease, stroke, mini stroke, and respiratory problems.

Last year, around half the people in Wales aged 6 months to 64 years of age eligible for a free NHS flu missed out.

Flu is a respiratory illness caused by a virus that affects the lungs and airways. Symptoms generally come on suddenly, and can include fever, chills, headache, cough, body aches and fatigue.

The Chief Nursing Officer for Wales, Jean White, is urging others to make sure they take up the offer of a flu vaccine this year.

“If you have a long term or chronic health condition, flu can affect you more than other people,” she said.

“There is protection available, and an annual flu vaccine is the best way to prevent yourself from catching flu, which can make your condition worse or can lead to other dangerous complications.

“Please don’t take any risks – make sure you get your vaccine this year.”