GP practices in Poole and Bournemouth will be prioritising patients to make sure the most vulnerable receive their flu jabs first.

The assurance comes after the revelation that immunisations would start later than usual this year because of problems making up the most effective vaccine to combat this winter's strain.

Patients have already been told that supplies should be arriving this month and next, and are advised to wait until their practice tells them vaccine is available.

A spokesman for Bournemouth and Poole Primary Care Trust said: "All practices have been promised delivery of flu vaccines on specified dates.Last year, practices co-operated so that when one had a delivery, it was shared with neighbouring practices to ensure the most vulnerable patients in the locality received priority vaccination.

"We are keeping the situation under review and will work with the Department of Health, pharmaceutical companies and local practices to make sure that patients receive their vaccines as soon as supplies are available."

Dr Carol Joseph, who monitors flu from October to May for the Health Protection Agency, said last winter's peak in levels of B type flu was in February and affected children more than adults.

"Currently flu activity is below baseline level, meaning there is very little virus circulating," she said.

"For most people flu, though unpleasant, is not a dangerous illness. However for at risk groups such as the elderly and patients with heart problems, diabetes or asthma, it can be more dangerous.

"This is why it's important for those in risk groups who are recommended for vaccination to take up the opportunity."