New figures reflect a fall in the number of people that have received a flu vaccination this year.

The East Berkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) have urged people who are in certain ‘at risk’ health groups to have their flu jabs. Children, older people, pregnant women and those with underlying health issues can be at risk of developing a severe illness if they catch flu.

The percentage of people under 65 including clinical risk groups, including diabetes, chronic heart disease and respiratory issues who have had a vaccination has fallen from 47.1 percent last year to 44.6 percent. Also, 43 percent of pregnant women had a vaccination last year, in comparison to 40.7 percent this year.

The number of children who have been vaccinated has risen overall. Over 21,000 across Windsor, Maidenhead, Slough, Bracknell and Ascot were vaccinated between September and December last year.

Berkshire CCG Associate Director of Nursing, Quality and Safety, Jo Greengrass, said: “Although temperatures have been generally mild, we know that the flu virus is circulating and people who have not yet been vaccinated continue to be at risk of developing the unpleasant symptoms.

“Patients with diabetes for example, are more at risk of developing serious complications arising from a flu infection. Complications can include pneumonia, inflammation of the heart, brain and muscle tissues and even multi-organ failure.”

She added: “If you are in a risk group, then I would urge you to visit your GP surgery and get the vaccination as soon as possible. It is not too late to get vaccinated for your protection and that of your family.”