Experts have warned they believe a rise in flu cases nationwide this winter is the result of fewer people opting to get a flu jab.
NHS England said it is concerned about the higher than usual number of flu cases, which has has been accompanied by a rise in Covid-19, norovirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) cases as colder winter weather arrived in the UK.
Health service chiefs said they have taken measures to manage the extra demand, including providing about 1,300 more hospital beds than last year, as well as a number of “24-hour coordination centres and support for frequent users of A&E services”.
The UK Health Security Agency reported that the number of patients hospitalised for winter illnesses quadrupled to about 5,000 before new year, which was three times higher than the previous year.
Health officials are now calling on the public to take up “final chance” vaccinations where available for flu, as well as other infections such as Covid-19.
The national booking system for flu vaccination closed on December 19, but eligible patients can still book their vaccination through their GP surgery or local pharmacy where available, according to the agency.
Dr Lindsay Broadbent, a lecturer in virology at the University of Surrey, told a pharmacy journal that the lower than usual turnout for jabs could be the reason.
“The best way to protect yourself from flu is to get vaccinated to reduce the risk of serious disease,” she said, noting that, even though there can be a mismatch between the strains targeted by vaccines and those in circulation, getting a shot can protect against developing severe disease needing hospitalisation.”
But how can you book a flu jab, who is eligible for a free vaccine and where is it being offered?
Am I eligible for a free flu jab?
You can get a free flu jab on the NHS if:
- You are aged 65 or older;
- You have certain medical conditions, such as a heart problem, kidney disease or diabetes;
- You are pregnant;
- You receive a carer’s allowance or you are the main caretaker of an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get ill;
- You live with someone who is likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system.
Where can I get a flu jab?
There are three places where you can receive the NHS flu vaccine. These are:
- Your GP surgery;
- A pharmacy offering the service;
- Certain maternity services if you are pregnant.
You may also be offered the flu vaccine at a hospital appointment.
How can I book my flu jab?
You can book an appointment at your GP surgery or a pharmacy that offers it on the NHS.
Those eligible may also receive an invitation to get vaccinated – though you will not need to wait for this before booking an appointment.
Everyone who is eligible for the jab will be able to get it, NHS England has said.
Ask your GP or local pharmacy for more information on stock levels, as the vaccine is delivered in batches. If you are not able to get an appointment straightaway, they will advise on when more vaccines will become available.
