OLYMPIC diver Chris Mears sprang into action this week to spearhead a winter flu vaccination campaign targeting patients vulnerable to contracting the potentially deadly illness.
The Team GB star, from Burghfield Common, launched the NHS South of England's Flu Safe initiative by rolling up his sleeves at Mortimer Surgery, in Victoria Road, on Monday, to receive the inoculation himself.
The 19-year-old, who clinched personal bests in the men's 3m springboard and 3m synchronised springboard competitions at London 2012, despite missing out on a podium finish, is among 'at risk' patients entitled to a free annual flu jab. The diver underwent a splenectomy three years ago and is vulnerable to picking up infections.
The former Willink School pupil, who also received the jab last year, appeared relaxed as senior practice nurse Wendy Roscoe prepared her syringe and he cheekily told her to "go for it". Afterwards he said: "It's really important to get protected. It's quick and easy and painless and no bother at all. I've had some tough times with competitions through illnesses and I need to keep healthy or it could ruin my competitions and my career."
The teenager, who showed staff a newly acquired tattoo of the Olympic rings which he had done in Plymouth with bronze medallist team mate Tom Daley, also thanked doctors and nurses for their care after his 2009 operation and said: "The NHS gives tremendous support and that is why I am here today to support them."
Flu symptoms include a fever and chills, a temperature of 38�C/ 100.4�F and above, a dry or chesty cough, runny nose and aching muscles or joints. At risk groups entitled to the jab include over-65s, pregnant women, asthmatics and people with long-term health conditions such as cancer and heart disease
NHS South of England public health consultant Paula Jackson urged people in at risk groups to contact their doctors immediately and said: "Most people recover from flu very easily but for some at risk groups it can be very serious." See www.nhs.uk/flu to check symptoms or for more.
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