The NHS in the East of England is ramping up opportunities for people to get their flu vaccination this weekend so they can be fully protected ahead of the Christmas period, as flu cases surge across the country.

Over 240,000 appointments are available at GP surgeries and high street pharmacies in the region over the next week for eligible people to get their flu vaccine.

Walk-in services are also available, allowing people to get their jab whilst doing their Christmas shopping, with vaccination vans already visiting busy high streets around the region.

The vaccine typically takes two weeks to become fully effective, making it essential to get vaccinated now to be protected throughout the festive season.

Dr Eleanor Powers, head of public health commissioning for immunisations at NHS England – East of England, said: “Flu has hit particularly early this year with cases across the country higher than usual, and still on the rise.

“Although many eligible people have already received their vaccine, we know that lots more haven’t, making them more vulnerable to what can be a serious virus.

“The vaccine is our best defence against flu, with those who are vaccinated much less likely to end up in hospital, even if they catch it.

“Getting vaccinated now means you’ll have the best possible protection for yourself and your loved ones for the Christmas period.

“With over 240,000 appointments available in the East of England over the next week, it’s easier than ever to get you and your family protected this winter, whether it’s at your local GP practice, pharmacy, your child’s school or other community clinic.

“So don’t wait, get your appointment booked in today.”

Those eligible for the free flu vaccine include people aged 65 and over, those in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, children, care home residents and carers, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff.

Eligible adults can book their flu vaccine appointment now via the NHS App, their GP practice, online at www.nhs.uk/bookflu, by calling 119 or by finding their nearest walk-in service at a local pharmacy.

Parents are being reminded to complete their child’s school vaccination consent forms or to book an appointment for 2 to 3-year-olds with their GP or in one of many participating community pharmacies, to ensure their child’s protection from flu ahead of the Christmas break.

If your child missed out on a vaccination session at school, the school will have details of community clinics for catch-up, or children with underlying conditions can get vaccinated at their GP.

The NHS in the East of England has upped the ante on its flu vaccination programme, with almost 2 million flu vaccines delivered so far this autumn (1,993,369).

This is over 113,000 more than at the same point last year (1,880,174 for the week ending 17 November 2024).

Early seasonal data shows vaccination remains the best defence against flu for children and adults, who are receiving strong protection from this year’s flu vaccine despite the emergence of a new flu sub-strain driving an unusually early flu season.

UKHSA’s first Cold-Health Alert of the season also reminded the public that cold weather can have a serious impact on health, leading to increased risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections, particularly for individuals over the age of 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions.

COVID-19 vaccinations are also available to adults aged 75 and over, older adult care home residents and people who are immunosuppressed, with 4.3 million delivered so far this season.

Adults aged 75 and over and those who are immunosuppressed can book their COVID-19 vaccine directly with their local pharmacy, GP practice, via the NHS app, online at nhs.uk/bookcovid or via 119.

The NHS also recommends the RSV vaccine to pregnant women and older adults, as well as the pneumococcal vaccine to over 65s, to help protect against serious illnesses that are more common in the winter, like pneumonia.

More information on recommended vaccinations is at nhs.uk/vaccinations

ENDS

Notes to editors 

• For more information about the flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme in the East of England, including details of walk-in clinics in the region, visit: NHS England — East of England » NHS winter flu and Covid-19 vaccination information
• Statistics on flu vaccinations are published on the NHS England website: Statistics » Vaccinations: Flu