Newton Aycliffe mum, Sarah Lister is supporting this year’s regional flu vaccination campaign by urging pregnant women to protect their babies and themselves this winter.

Sarah, 27, who lives with partner Simon in the town, was five-months pregnant when she had her flu jab last year.

Sarah and seven-month-old Mary, joined Team GB Paralympic Team Captain Stephen Miller and north east NHS ‘Flu Safe Squad’ to launch this year’s flu vaccination awareness campaign in Newcastle.

As part of the campaign, the ‘Flu Safe Squad’ will take to the streets of the region to spread the message about the annual FREE flu jab which could save the lives of over 800,000 north easterners who are at serious risk from flu this winter.

The vaccine is available now from GP surgeries and is free on the NHS to eligible people to keep them safe during winter. All those at risk are being urged by the NHS to get the vaccine now and not to wait until there is flu outbreak.

The flu jab is safe, and it can’t give you flu. It is particularly important that children with serious underlying conditions get the flu jab as they are at higher risk complications with flu.

People who need the free flu jab include: People aged 65 years or over.

All pregnant women (including those women who become pregnant during the flu season).

People of all ages with a serious medical condition such as Long term severe asthma, chronic obstructive pul-monary disease (COPD) or bronchitis

Long-term heart disease, such as heart failure

Long term kidney disease and liver disease

Long term neurological disease, such as Parkinson’s or motor neurone disease

Diabetes

A weakened immune system due to disease (such as HIV/AIDS) or treatment (such as cancer treatment)

People living in long stay residential care homes

People who are in receipt of a carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an older or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill.

Don’t wait until there is a flu outbreak this winter: contact your GP practice now to get your seasonal flu jab.