http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/s868762.htm

Last Update: Saturday, May 31, 2003. 6:23am (AEST)

Health officials urge jab as flu season approaches

Health officials are warning Australia is expected to have a particularly severe flu season this winter.

A new strain of the flu, known as Moscow Type A, is expected to reach Australia for the first time.

It caused more deaths in the northern hemisphere than any other strain during the last European winter.

The head of microbiology at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Richard Benn, says everyone should consider having a flu vaccination, especially those most at risk from the flu.

"Anyone with chest or heart disease younger than the age of 65, and that includes heavy smokers with chronic bronchitis, should be having flu shots, they will suffer if they don't," Dr Benn said.

"They'll be more likely to be admitted to hospital.

"Those who are particularly infirm, the very old, have a much higher chance of dying, 50 per cent more chance of dying than those who've had a shot."

© 2003 Australian Broadcasting Corporation

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