Rise in winter deaths
Published on 25 November 2015 11:00 AM
Commenting on figures out today which show a 157 per cent rise in winter deaths in Wales last winter, Age Cymru's Director of Influencing and Programme Development Victoria Lloyd said:
"This shocking rise in winter deaths among older people - the highest this century, sends a clear message to us all about the importance of looking after our health during the cold winter months.
"The predominant flu strain last winter was one that had affected older people more seriously than other age groups which clearly contributed to this huge increase in winter deaths we saw among over 65s.
"The fact remains that the winter flu jab is still the most effective protection against seasonal flu that is available.
"If you are 65 or over, you should have a flu jab every year because the flu virus changes regularly and immunity wanes.
"You can get a free flu jab from your GP and some local pharmacies if you are 65 and over, have a long-term health condition, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person."