PEOPLE eligible for a free flu jab this winter are being urged to take-up the offer.

Keighley MP Robbie Moore is among those backing the call.

He says the importance of the flu vaccination, given the current Covid-19 pandemic, has taken on extra significance.

“As we approach the winter it is imperative that everyone who needs a flu vaccination takes-up the offer to have one,” he said.

“I urge everybody in the Keighley and Ilkley constituency, who is eligible, to get vaccinated. It could make an important difference if they should also catch coronavirus in the months ahead.

“Controlling the spread of coronavirus and protecting the NHS is on all of us – we must all wash our hands, cover our faces and make space, as well as taking sensible steps like getting a flu jab.”

This winter’s flu vaccination campaign in England will be the biggest ever.

Everyone over 50 is to be offered the vaccine this time.

The aim is to vaccinate 30 million people, as new Public Health England research suggest that people who catch flu and test positive for Covid-19 are more than twice as likely to die than those who have just Covid-19.

Those included in the vaccination programme are all primary school children and year 7 pupils, two and three-year-olds, the most vulnerable including adults aged 65 and over and those with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, household contacts of people on the NHS shielded patient list and all health and social care workers who have direct contact with the people they look after.

Once uptake has been maximised in the most-at-risk groups, the newly eligible 50-64-year olds will be invited for vaccination later in the season.

Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, says: “This year more than ever it’s vital that those eligible for the flu jab get it so you can protect yourself, your family and the NHS.

“We’re pulling out all the stops to prepare for this uniquely challenging winter and we have enough vaccines for 30 million people this year, more than we’ve ever done before.”

The vaccination plea is supported by Diabetes UK.

The charity says it’s imperative that people with the condition take-up the offer of a free jab through their pharmacy or GP.

“Getting the flu jab is the best way to protect yourself against the flu and reduce your risk of needing to go into hospital – which is even more important this year in light of coronavirus,” said Clare Howarth, for Diabetes UK. “If you’re living with diabetes, you’re more at risk of getting the flu.”