Flu vaccine uptake figures in over 65s
23 November
2006
"The Royal College of GPs feels it is
important this issue is kept in perspective and to bear in mind
that the figures Pulse are basing their story on are now two weeks
old.
This week’s figures show that the flu vaccine
uptake rate for over 65 year olds is 57%. This is only
slightly behind on the same week last year which showed a rate of
62%. It is correct that some doctors have not had their full
supply of the vaccine yet but the most up-to-date figures do show
that the gap is closing. GPs are targeting at risk groups for
flu vaccines and it is important that if patients are invited for
the flu jab by their GP surgery they do take this up.
What is also important to remember is that we
haven’t had a flu outbreak yet this season so a figure which is
only slightly down on last year has no impact at the moment.
It is reasonable to say the earlier you get the vaccine the better
and this year there is no evidence that these figures will result
in any serious repercussions.”
Professor Mayur Lakhani
Chairman of the Royal College of GPs
Ends
For further infomation contact the press
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