HEALTH officials in Darlington have reported record numbers of people turning up for their flu jabs this year.

With December figures still to come in, Darlington Primary Trust (PCT) has said that 74 per cent of the over-65 population have been vaccinated against the flu - much higher than last year's final total.

Experts believe residents were encouraged to have the jab by speculation of a flu pandemic.

All 11 GP practices in the town reported a healthy take-up of the vaccination.

The PCT also successfully operated the flu bus again, a mobile clinic which went out to residents who found it difficult to visit their sur- gery.

Every year the PCT runs a flu jab campaign aiming to vaccinate at least 70 per cent of the eligible population of people aged 65 and over, and those living with chronic health conditions.

Vaccination is needed every year from October to December because the flu virus mutates.

Health experts believe a flu pandemic is overdue - the last one was in 1968 and began in Hong Kong.

They are also keeping a close eye on cases of bird flu, which this year has claimed almost 40 lives in Asia.

During the First World War, a pandemic of influenza claimed more lives than the fighting.

In this country, an estimated 4,000 deaths a year are attributed to the complications of flu.

Darlington PCT flu co-ordinator Marilyn Abbott said: "People have definitely been more aware of the issue this year because of all the publicity surrounding bird flu and a possible pandemic.

"Even normal flu can be a very nasty disease, leading to complications older people can struggle to overcome.

"So we are delighted that so many people have come forward to have their annual jab giving them the protection they need."

She said nursing home, residential home and house-bound patients had also been targeted, as these are our particularly vulnerable groups.

"All of the surgery and PCT staff have put in a supreme effort this year and deserve a lot of praise," said Mrs Abbott.

"We have had a very positive response about the flu bus which people love as it is so convenient and easy to use."