HALTON diabetes patients are putting their lives at risk because they are not having their free flu jab.

The charity, Diabetes UK says nearly a third of people under 65 are failing to be vaccinated, despite being almost six times more likely to die from flu then someone their age who does not have the condition.

Pav Kalsi, clinical advisor at Diabetes UK said: “People with diabetes are a high-risk group when it comes to getting flu, so it is important they are vaccinated as soon as possible this winter and understand the importance of being protected.

“Having flu can really upset diabetes control and cause blood glucose levels to fluctuate. This can leave people with diabetes open to many serious health problems, including complications of flu such as pneumonia and bronchitis.”

“If you have diabetes and haven’t already been invited for a free flu jab, contact your GP surgery to find out when they are holding clinics.”