A MOVE to immunise every pensioner in East Lancashire against flu will cost health bosses an extra £175,000, it has been revealed.

East Lancashire Health Authority is hoping that its campaign involving all 65-year-olds and above could have a major impact on death rates from the condition.

The move has been made as hospital chiefs brace themselves for another winter of extreme pressure on hospitals in Blackburn and Burnley.

GP practices are being urged to offer a flu jab to people over 65 as well as those people who are considered most "at risk" from the infection. David Peat, chief executive designate of the health authority, said: "It will cost no more than £175,000 to vaccinate everybody over 65 and those in the at risk group.

"It is very good value for money and will cost about £5 per jab. If we can save one person from going into hospital then it would be a success.

"The success rate will probably be about one in 100 before the campaign starts to pay for itself."

It is estimated that the immunisation campaign will cost about £1,400 for every GP practice.

Dr Chris Ward, the health authority's GPs' spokesman, said: "Most GPs would encourage the vaccine for the over 65s, although it will mean extra work for practice nurses, GPs and district nurses."

Manufacturers have assured the health authority that enough vaccine will be available to support its campaign.

Flu can affect up to 20 per cent of the population every year, though only a small number will consult a GP.

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