PEOPLE across the Keighley area are being urged to get a flu jab if they’re offered one.

District health chiefs say social distancing and shielding due to the pandemic had the impact of keeping flu levels low last year. But it’s feared that with restrictions now lifted, flu cases could rise.

Sarah Muckle, Bradford’s director of public health, said: “It is important to boost your immunity by having the flu vaccination at the earliest opportunity when it is offered, so you are best placed to fight off any infections this winter.

“This is especially important if you have an existing health problem, because people in clinically at-risk groups are 11 times more likely to experience complications if they get flu.

“Everyone needs to remember that flu is a serious disease that can require hospital treatment – and that some people will even die from it.

“Getting your vaccination is a lot easier than having to deal with the fever, aches and other symptoms of flu.”

She added that receiving the jab would also reduce pressures on the health and care system, with winter outbreaks of Covid-19 likely.