PEOPLE in the North-East at risk from flu - including the parents of two and three-year-old children - have been urged to take up the offer of a free flu jab.

Public Health England, the Chief Medical Officer and NHS England are appealing to all the vulnerable groups to protect themselves this winter by getting vaccinated.

For the first time a nasal spray vaccine will be offered to healthy two and three-year-old children in a bid to slow down the spread of the virus.

Dr Roberta Marshall, director of the North-East Public Health England Centre, said: "For the majority of people, flu is an unpleasant, but not life-threatening illness.

"However, it can be very serious for older people and those groups at risk of developing complications.

"They include those with weakened immune systems as well as underlying conditions such as neurological disorders, liver, lung or renal disease, heart problems or diabetes and pregnant women.

"Vaccination remains the best way to protect against the potential serious harm from flu this winter. I urge everyone entitled to a free jab, to take up the offer - especially the parents of young children who qualify."

Nationally almost 800 people were admitted to intensive care with complications of flu last year and tens of thousands are admitted to hospital.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Dame Sally Davies said: "Severe winter flu and its complications can make people really ill and can kill.

"You are eleven times more likely to die from flu if you are in a clinical at risk group. I urge everyone who is eligible, to get the vaccine and help protect themselves and their families this winter."

For information on how to get your child vaccinated, contact your local GP surgery.