PEOPLE in risk groups across Bradford have been reminded to make sure they get their flu vaccination if they are entitled to it to protect themselves and others from the virus.

Those people who are pregnant, children aged two, three and four-years-old or who have long term health conditions are eligible for the jab free - as are people aged 65 or older by March 31, 2015.

People in the clinically ‘at risk’ groups are 11 times more likely to experience complications if they get the flu than a ‘healthy person’. This includes those suffering from heart, lung, liver, kidney, spleen or neurological diseases, diabetes, stroke or a lowered immune system.

Pregnant women who get the vaccination will also pass on the protection to their babies for the first few months after they are born.

All two, three and 4 year olds are being asked to take a safe and effective nasal spray vaccine to protect themselves and help prevent the spread of flu.

Ralph Saunders, head of public health for Bradford Council, said: "Flu is not just a cold. It is very contagious and can be a really serious illness. Having the flu vaccine doesn’t just protect you; it helps stop the flu spreading to other people who may be even more vulnerable than yourself.”

However, for most healthy people not in at risk groups, flu remains a mild illness and generally they will recover in a few days after getting lots of rest, drinking plenty of fluids and using over-the-counter remedies such as paracetamol.

If symptoms do not improve then people should stay at home and call your doctor or call 111 for non-urgent medical advice.

Selected local pharmacies are also offering the flu vaccination free to at risk groups who are registered with a GP. Anyone not at risk can also get the injection, although a charge will apply.