The Health Division said today that the influenza vaccine is being made available from the Department of Primary Health, free of charge, to persons aged 55 years and over, all persons of any age suffering from chronic diseases of the lungs, heart, liver, kidney; diabetes mellitus, and any immunodeficiency conditions, including HIV and AIDS, and all persons residing in institutions.

In the case of persons below 55 years of age, evidence of one of the above conditions needs to be confirmed by presenting a Schedule V Control Card or a recent medical certificate.

"The influenza season this year could be worse and globally, experts are expecting that both H1N1 virus and seasonal flu will cause illness, hospital stays and deaths. The Health Division is preparing for an early and possibly severe influenza season," the division said.

It recommended the yearly seasonal flu vaccine as an important step in protecting against seasonal influenza, adding that this was especially important for people at high risk of serious flu complications.

The division also said that people shold prevent the spread of the flu by covering their nose and mouth with a tissue when they coughed or sneezed. Hands should be washed often with soap and water, and one should avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. They should also try to avoid close contact with sick people. Those suffering flu-like symptoms should stay at home and limit contact with others to stop infection.

Vaccination against seasonal influenza is available from all health centres between 10:30am and 1.00 pm, Mondays to Fridays, and from 10.00 am to 12.00 noon on Saturdays. During the first two weeks of the campaign, Health Centres will also be open for vaccination on Mondays, Wednesday and Friday from 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm.

Persons who cannot leave their home and who wish to receive the vaccination are being asked to register by calling on telephone number 21387526 from 12.00 noon to 3.00 pm. Any patients already receiving a service by MMDNA are registered automatically.