Northampton Town stars get their flu jabs...and now they are urging others to do the same

The flu vaccine is a lifesaver because flu is a highly contagious disease which for some people can lead to serious and sometimes life-threatening consequences.

Anders Braastad, head physio at Northampton Town Football Club said: "A flu epidemic in the dressing room could seriously affect the squad and have an impact on the team so the players try to avoid that by getting their flu jab.

"But I'd urge anyone to get the jab - particularly those under 65s with long-term conditions, such as heart or breathing problems, and pregnant women who have yet to be protected from the deadly virus.

"Children can receive the nasal spray, which is really quick and painless and also prevents the virus spreading to their immediate family.”

A spokesperson for the NHS Nene Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “Having your flu jab is one of the most important actions you can take to protect your health. The flu vaccine reduces risk of serious illness, hospitalisation and even death among those who are most at risk. Yet last year over 80,000 people in the Northamptonshire area did not protect themselves from flu that winter.

“Flu is not just a bad cold – it can be extremely serious, even if you’re already fit and healthy when you catch it. There are a lot of myths about flu that have circulated over the years. Many people worry that the vaccine can give you the flu.

"Everyone can be assured that this isn’t possible as there is no live influenza virus in the vaccine. There is no need to worry about giving the vaccine to your children, or if you are pregnant, the vaccine affecting your baby.

“So, if you’re eligible, please make sure that you get the free flu jab from the NHS. You can be sure that it won’t make you ill, and it might save your life.”

Those at greater risk from flu include people aged 65 or over, pregnant women, the very young and people with health conditions such as severe asthma, chest or heart complaints and diabetes. An annual flu vaccine nasal spray is also now offered to healthy children aged two, three and four years old, and to children in school years one and two."