AT risk groups are being urged to receive their free flu vaccine this winter by Barnet health chiefs.

Patients who may be susceptible to illness are being reminded to protect themselves against seasonal flu, which is most common during the coldest months.

Doctors said it remains important that people continue take up the injections in addition to the swine flu vaccinations, which will be distributed in the coming weeks.

Dr Andrew Burnett, medical director and director of health improvement for NHS Barnet, said seasonal flu is a highly infectious viral infection which affects people of all ages, and between 4,000 and 12,000 people nationally die from resulting complications each year.

Over 65's and people with heart problems, chest complaints or breathing difficulties, kidney or liver disease, lower immunity, diabetes, and neurological conditions are considered to be in the at risk groups.

They can face an increased the risk of more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia, or can make existing conditions worse. In the worst cases, seasonal flu can result in a stay in hospital, or even death.

Anyone who has suffered a stroke or Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) or has problems with their spleen, is also encouraged to take up the vaccine.

People have already started receiving the jab from their GP, and drop-in clinics will be set up in Edgware Community Hospital and Finchley Memorial Hospital from November 6.

Dr Burnett, said, “We do not want people to confuse the seasonal flu vaccine with the swine flu vaccine that will soon be available.

“These are two separate vaccines and the seasonal flu jab will not protect you against swine flu, so it is important for those in ‘at risk’ groups to receive both vaccinations.

“Having the flu is not the same as having a cold – it lasts longer than a cold, making a person feel very unwell and for some individuals, progressing to complications such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

“To receive maximum protection from influenza those who fall under ‘at risk’ groups can avoid a heavyweight illness with a free seasonal flu jab.”