“Flu nearly killed me last winter” says 47 year old Adam Blackman, as he urges people, of all ages, to get immunised against Influenza.
Last winter, Adam Blackman did not bother getting a flue vaccine, which resulted in him spending more than a month in hospital after the virus triggered a life threatening asthma attack. Mr Blackman said he massively underestimated how dangerous the Flu really is, and told press that he had “learned the hard way”.
As explained on multiple health websites, the Flu lasts a week or so, (although you can be contagious for a period of time afterwards), but this week can be very dangerous for people in “high risk groups”, such as those with asthma and the elderly.
Mr Blackman developed pneumonia and had a collapsed lung, which meant he had to be put into a medically induced coma for a week.
“I have asthma and my body just couldn’t cope, I actually thought I was going to die before the ambulance got here. It was nearly catastrophic for me but my friends and family were also at risk. My brother-in-law who has asthma got ill shortly afterwards and ended up in hospital too. I learned the hard way that the flu can be life-threatening. I was hooked up to a life-support machine and put in isolation so that the flu wouldn’t spread. Given how contagious flu can be, I would urge everyone to get the flu vaccine so they don’t have to go through the hell I’ve been through. I’m not risking it again and have already got the flu vaccine. I am urging everyone with asthma to get it as soon as possible. It could save your life.”
According to the NHS, you can get the vaccine for free if you are:
- 65 or older
- pregnant
- someone with certain medical conditions, including asthma, heart disease or diabetes
- living in a long stay care facility or home
- the main carer for an elderly or disabled person
- a child aged two to 10
Mr Blackman was in one of these groups, and he chose not to get the jab. He nearly died before his sons first birthday because of this. It’s strongly recommended that you get one of these vaccines if you feel you need one. Speak to a pharmacist or your doctor if you have any questions.
