More than 2,000 influenza vaccines have to be thrown away every year by the Government because not all those eligible for the free jab take it, according to Community Care Parliamentary Secretary Mario Galea.

“Taking the vaccine is a personal and collective responsibility because taking it reduces the risk of getting the flu and giving it to others,” he said.

This year, the Government ordered 80,000 vaccines at €2.90 each and hopes all vulnerable people – including the elderly, small children and chronically ill patients – will take it.

The free vaccine for seasonal influenza started being given last week before the temperature drops.

Unfortunately, Mr Galea said, some people laboured under the misconception that the vaccine could make them worse.

This was not the case and the vaccine given in Malta was safe, he insisted.

It was important for vulnerable people to have the injection because influenza could lead to pneumonia and even death.

People underestimated its severity, he told a press conference held at the Żejtun day centre for the elderly.

Katy Bugeja, 76, and her friend Carmen Debono, 75, have the jab every year as they do not want to risk being bedridden because of the flu.

“Even though I take it, I always get a mild version of the flu. But, at least, I won’t have fever and I can go on being active,” Ms Bugeja said.

Ms Debono said she had not contracted the flu since receiving the vaccine and intended to keep taking it.

Each year, between 20,000 and 60,000 come down with the flu, Mr Galea said.

This had economic repercussions because it led to sick leave and hospital expenses in cases of complications.

Last year, 76,000 people were vaccinated and, so far this year, 16,000 had the jab in health centres alone.

The 80,000 vaccines will ensure there is one available for all those eligible for the free dose.

Apart from the vulnerable groups, people who worked in healthcare, police officers, members of the army and detention officers are also eligible for the free vaccine.