AROUND 1.2million asthma sufferers are putting themselves at risk flu this winter by not getting a free jab, a study has shown.
Huge numbers of Brits with the breathing condition say they won’t bother getting a flu jab – leaving themselves vulnerable to more asthma attacks.
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Research found more than 1.2M people could be at risk of contracting the viral illness by not getting protected
And 30 per cent of those told a survey by ASDA pharmacy they were unconcerned that developing flu could trigger severe asthma.
Athlete Paula Radcliffe, an asthma sufferer, is fronting a new campaign to persuade those at risk to get a jab.
She said: “Although I’m an elite athlete in good physical shape, I know first hand the consequences of flu.
“It’s absolutely terrifying how hard the virus hits you when you suffer from asthma.
“It’s important for asthma sufferers and other at-risk groups to understand the risks and make sure they get protected.”
In the UK, 4.3million Brits are being treated for asthma, a condition that makes breathing difficult and causes shortness of breath.
An increase in asthma attacks can occur if sufferers catch the flu as it causes further inflammation.
What are the symptoms of asthma?
Asthma is a respiratory condition caused by inflammation of the breathing tubes that carry air to and from our lungs, and it currently affects over 5 million people across the UK.
According to the NHS, the main symptoms of asthma are:
- Wheezing (a whistling sound when breathing)
- Breathlessness
- A tight chest
- Coughing
Although the above symptoms can have a number of causes, they are likely signs of asthma if they happen regularly and keep coming back, are worse at night or early morning, or seem to be in response to an allergen.
The severity of the above symptoms can vary between different people.
When these symptoms suddenly worsen temporarily, it is known as an asthma attack.
Asthma attacks can be caused by allergens, such as animal fur or pollen, cold air, exercise, chest infections or other irritants – such as cigarette smoke.
Allergies and asthma often go together.
Asthma caused by an allergic reaction is known as ‘allergic asthma’.
