§ Mr. HepburnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures the Department is taking to encourage older people to get immunised against influenza. [133213]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonWe launched a campaign on 1 October incorporating a number of strategies aimed at encouraging older people to receive their influenza immunisation. The campaign incorporates
736WNational television advertising.Advertising in national and regional newspapers and magazines, including ethnic media.Advertising in buses, on pharmacy bags and online.Work with commercial partners, such as Gala Bingo and voluntary organisations such as Heart UK and the National Asthma Campaign.The Chief Medical Officer wrote to all general practitioners with details of this year's influenza programme in his letter of 6 August 2003.
§ Mrs. DeanTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what impact the new guidelines issued by his Department on eligibility for protective injections against influenza will have on those with(a) asthma and (b) other medical respiratory conditions. [133091]
§ Miss Melanie JohnsonThe guidelines on eligibility for influenza vaccination has remained unchanged since its introduction in 2000–01. Those with asthma and other chronic respiratory disease should therefore continue to receive their free flu vaccination, as they have in previous years.