THOSE in Dorset who are most at risk of flu are being urged to get their free NHS vaccination as soon as possible, before flu season hits.

Older people are encouraged to get vaccinated, and this year's free vaccination has been extended to everyone aged 50 and over.

So far more than 860,000 over 65s in the South West have taken the step to protect themselves against the potentially serious illness, which is more than 75 per cent of people in that age group.

Pregnant women are also being encouraged to take the vaccine, alongside those with long term conditions.

Director of Primary Care and Public Health for NHS England and NHS Improvement in the South West, Ian Biggs said: "Thank you to everyone who has already taken the important step of getting vaccinated, to protect both yourself and those around you.

"The flu can be serious, especially for vulnerable people, and we know it’s easily spread too.

"If you haven’t had your jab yet please do as soon as possible before we start seeing cases of flu rise in the South West."

In an average year, the virus kills 11,000 people in England and hospitalises tens of thousands more.

With Covid-19 still very prominent, this year is anything but a typical year.

The flu vaccine offers protection from the virus and can be given quickly and easily at a GP or pharmacy.

Vaccinating more people this winter will help protect the NHS too, especially during these unprecedented times.

Screening and Immunisation Lead for Public Health England South West, Dr Jonathan Roberts said: "There is still time to get vaccinated against flu before it starts circulating in the community and we are urging anyone who is eligible to take up the offer of a vaccination – particularly those with underlying health conditions and health and social care workers where we tend to see lower uptake – to help protect themselves, their family and the NHS."