HEALTH chiefs are urging people at risk of catching flu to have their vaccine early ahead of winter.

Children, pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions and the elderly are being warned to get immunised.

Doctors want more parents in Bolton to take their children for a nasal spray vaccine, which is now being offered to youngsters up to the age of four.

The quick and painless vaccine has been available for two to three-year-olds since 2013, yet doctors have only seen a 40 per cent take up in Bolton.

Those eligible for free vaccinations should contact their GP’s surgery.

Dr Wirin Bhatiani, chairman of NHS Bolton Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “This is the best time of year to have the flu vaccine and our GP practices will be immunising patients in high risk groups over the coming weeks.

"So, don’t put off getting the flu vaccination. If you or your children are eligible, get it now and get protected.

“The more people who are vaccinated, the lower the likelihood and spread of infection, which also reduces pressure on our local health services during the winter months.”

People with health conditions — such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease — are at risk from the more serious effects of flu.

Pregnant women have a naturally weakened immune system, meaning flu poses a greater health risk to mums and babies.

People of the age of 65 are also at risk from the more serious effects of flu.

Cllr Linda Thomas, deputy leader of Bolton Council, said: “Flu can be such a debilitating illness for the very young and the elderly, or those with existing health problems, and it’s important to try and prevent the spread of flu in order to protect the most vulnerable groups of people.

“Flu presents as a range of unpleasant signs and symptoms, and we would urge everyone who is offered the free flu vaccination to visit their GP, along with health care workers to protect themselves, their patients and families.

“There is a 73.6 per cent take-up of the vaccination in Bolton among those aged 65 and over, but we also encourage people of any age who have an existing health condition, plus pregnant women, to contact their GP as they can be susceptible to contracting the illness.”

Parents can contact their GP or health visitor for information about the nasal spray.