YOUNGER people in the 'at risk' category are being urged to get their flu jabs as more cases have been reported so far this year.

Flu levels in Lancashire have risen rapidly in recent weeks. Health officials say the majority of cases involve people under 65 including children and they are urging those who suffer from chronic diseases to get their free jabs.

Prof Qutub Syed, north west director of the HPA, said: "I would strongly advise young adults who suffer from any of these conditions to arrange to have their flu jabs as soon as possible. The same advice applies to the parents and guardians of vulnerable children, no matter how young. A simple injection could help prevent dismay and heartache as winter draws in."

Health chiefs say the levels of flu cases are normal for the time of year, despite the sudden rise.

Dr Sohail Ashraf, from the East Lancashire branch of the Health Protection Agency, said: "The figures are really back to what we expect the amount of flu circulating to be. The last few years were unusually quiet.

"It makes it even more important for all younger people and those over 65 to get immunised as quickly as possible."

He said the week ending November 2, there were 39.6 flu cases being reported per 100,000 people.

Two weeks earlier the figure was only 11.5 cases per 100,000 and a corresponding figure for the last two or three years would be between 12 and 20 per 100,000.

Prof Syed added: "It is a common misconception that free flu jabs are only available for people over 65.

"They are also available to anyone with heart or chest complaints, including asthma, diabetes, chronic kidney disease or lowered immunity due to disease or treatment, such as steroid or cancer treatment."

Meanwhile, health officials in East Lancashire are continuing their campaign to get over 65s immunised.

So far, 52 per cent have received their free jabs in Blackburn with Darwen, 48 per cent in Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale and 42 per cent in Hyndburn and Ribble Valley.