FREE seasonal flu jabs are now being offered across North Yorkshire to people over 65 and others with certain long-term health conditions.

Everyone over 65 is eligible for a free jab as part of the this year’s national Influenza Immunisation Campaign.

People with serious heart and chest complaints like severe asthma, serious kidney or liver disease, diabetes, lowered immunity and people who have suffered a stroke can also get the free vaccine.

The programme is part of the yearly campaign to vaccinate people vulnerable to seasonal influenza.

A vaccine for swine flu is currently in production and is expected to be made available via GP practices to similar groups of people later this year.

Flu co-ordinator and public health nurse at NHS North Yorkshire and York, Jill Wass, said: "For most people, flu is not a serious illness. The body normally fights off the infection without medical treatment and symptoms usually clear within four to ten days with plenty of liquids and bed rest.

"For some people flu can have serious consequences and by getting vaccinated they can help protect themselves from the illness."

She added: "To help stop the spread of flu, it’s important to wash hands regularly, and catch coughs and sneezes in tissues and bin them immediately.

"People with flu should also avoid contact with other people as much as possible. Arranging for a ‘flu friend’ to pick up remedies is one good way of doing this."