NHS issues flu jab SOS with worst of winter only weeks away
The NHS has sounded a nationwide call for people to get their flu vaccinations as soon as possible, with the hardest months of winter just around the corner. England’s top nurse urged eligible adults to act now to ensure they are protected before the flu season peaks.
To meet the growing demand, the health service is opening 2.4 million vaccination slots next week—enough to cover the entire population of Greater Manchester or Botswana. The push comes after an early surge in flu cases, which are already three times higher than at this time last year.
“Eligible adults are being urged to come forward now, so they are fully protected ahead of the usual flu season peak in the winter months.”
This year’s increase follows Australia’s most severe flu season on record, often a sign of what to expect in the United Kingdom. Latest weekly data shows NHS teams have administered more than 13.2 million flu vaccines since the campaign began, with substantial progress made in protecting vulnerable groups.
Nearly 60% of care home residents (59.4%) have now received their flu vaccination. This success is credited to stronger coordination between vaccination services and care facilities, and the use of mobile and community-based clinics. Additionally, 2.3 million children have been vaccinated, including 400,000 two- and three-year-olds—around one-third of those eligible.
Summary
NHS urges eligible people across England to get flu jabs now as early flu cases surge, providing millions of new vaccination slots to boost winter protection.