People urged to get their free flu jab before winter

Health experts in the North East are urging people most at risk to get their free flu vaccine this winter.

- by Tom Patterson

The North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board says flu is a serious illness and, for people with existing health problems, can be much more dangerous, causing serious problems like pneumonia and breathing problems - and can sometimes be fatal.

Dr Catherine Monaghan, respiratory consultant and medical director for the ICB, said: "Flu is much more than just a cold and it can lead to serious health problems.