A RECTOR has rolled up her sleeves to encourage people to have their flu jab.

Rector of Colwall, Melanie Horton, had her flu vaccine at Colwall Pharmacy in Walwyn Road.

She said: “I wanted to help spread the word about the importance of helping protect yourself from the virus.”

The pharmacy is offering the private flu vaccination service through the nationwide All About Health programme.

Pharmacist Mike Hambrey said: “Flu is highly infectious so it’s important to get your flu jab sooner rather than later as it may take up to two weeks after having the jab for it to provide protection.

“Even if you had the flu last year, you will still need to be vaccinated to stay protected this winter.”

He added that if left untreated, the virus can lead to health complications such as bronchitis and secondary bacterial pneumonia so having the jab and taking some simple lifestyle steps can provide flu-fighting benefits.

He said: “As winter creeps in, people aren’t as active and they tend to eat stodgy and sugary foods, which could have an effect on your body’s immune response.

“Make sure you keep up your intake of fruit and veg and try to avoid sugary and processed foods to strengthen your immune system.

“Also, try to keep as active as possible. Going for a brisk walk with a friend is a good way to get exercise without really knowing it.”