A FLU vaccine given out to pensioners in Swindon this winter should prove more effective, health chiefs have said.

Called the adjuvant active vaccine, NHS bosses say the jab will improve the body's own immune response. Older people are more likely to suffer complications from the flu.

Dr Richard Sandford-Hill, a Wiltshire-based GP and a Clinical Board member of the B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire NHS Sustainability and Transformation Partnership, said: “Flu vaccinations are free for those who need them most, and they really do offer the best protection against catching flu. This year, those who are eligible across B&NES, Swindon and Wiltshire will be given the best type of vaccination for their individual needs.

“Flu is potentially a very serious illness and adults aged over 65 are more likely to catch it and suffer from the complications it causes than anyone else. The new enhanced vaccine for this age group will offer better protection as well as helping to reduce the spread of flu to those around them.”

Children aged between two and 10, pregnant women, carers and those with long-term health conditions like asthma are also eligible to receive the free flu jab.

The flu vaccine will be available from early October from people's GP or pharmacy.

Last year, Swindon saw a spike in flu cases as doctors battled a virulent strain of the virus. Two specialist clinicians at GWH worked through the clock to test patients suspected of having the virus. Dr Guy Rooney, clinical director, said the pair had saved scores of hospital beds from being quarantined last winter.

For more, visit: www.nhs.uk/flu.