PREGNANT women, the elderly and people with certain long-term medical conditions are among those being reminded to take up their free flue jab.

The NHS offers the jab free to anyone aged 65 and over, pregnant women, people living in residential care homes and those with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, HIV or Aids.

Although the best time to have the jab is in October and November, viruses are still in wide circulation until early spring.

Public health consultant for NHS England in Arden, Herefordshire and Worcestershire Neil Adams said: “It’s definitely not too late to get the flu jab if you’re in an at-risk group.

“People think of flu as just being a winter disease. However, last year in Arden, Herefordshire and Worcestershire, we saw flu outbreaks in some communities well into April.

“And after getting your jab, why not make a resolution to get in early for the next flu season – that way you’ll be protected against flu for the whole year.”

To inquire about a free flu jab talk to your GP.