LESS than half of Plymouth's most at risk patients were vaccinated against flu last year and a city MP is calling for more people to have the seasonal jab.

Alison Seabeck, member for Plymouth Devonport, was given the vaccination along with MPs and peers from all parties and is encouraging other city residents to follow suit.

Mrs Seabeck said Department of Health figures showed that last year 74.2 per cent of over 65s and 49.9 per cent of people in at risk groups were vaccinated against flu in Plymouth.

"We are all hearing a lot about pandemic these days but it is really important that people over the age of 65 and all those in at-risk groups don't forget about their seasonal flu jab, and visit their surgeries to be vaccinated," she said.

"Seasonal flu vaccination is important to help protect those people who are more susceptible to serious complications from the condition."

People with liver, kidney, lung or heart disease or a weakened immune system are classed as being in an at risk group and are entitled to a flu jab. Those over 65 can also have the free vaccination.

Dr George Kassianos, a GP and member of the Royal College of GPs said it is still just as important to guard against seasonal flu despite people contracting swine flu.

"We must not let this (swine flu) distract our attention from the seriousness of normal, seasonal flu. Complications from seasonal flu can be severe, with as many as 3,000 to 4,000 deaths in the UK each year attributable to seasonal flu. I would encourage everyone at risk to get their jab."

Swine flu: Your questions answered.