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More than 3 million people in the Midlands have received flu vaccination

With flu, COVID and other respiratory illnesses in circulation, the NHS is urging people in the Midlands to get their jabs now to ensure maximum protection throughout the festive and New Year period.

So far, more than 3 million people have had their flu vaccinations as figures for the illness start to increase as temperatures drop and we move into winter.

Flu levels are higher than normal after two years of lockdown, which kept it suppressed.

This year is predicted to be a bad winter for respiratory infections, with an expected significant rise in flu and COVID-19 infections occurring together. This combination increases the possibility of complications and is likely to result in increased hospitalisations and deaths.

Eligible people can get their flu and COVID jab at the same time depending on local system arrangements.

There are more than 260 sites in the East Midlands and 348 sites in the West Midlands that are now offering seasonal vaccinations – mainly community pharmacies and GP premises as well as a few bigger centres – so it should be more convenient than ever for people to get their boosters.

Roz Lindridge, the NHS England director responsible for overseeing the vaccination programme across the Midlands, said:

“We know that with winter comes both increased infection levels and also increased inter-generational mixing of families as people come together to celebrate the festive period with their loved ones. So, it is vital that those who are due their booster or flu jab, come forward as soon as possible to ensure they have that protection for themselves and their loved ones this winter.

“Many people are really concerned about the cost-of-living right now, but getting both jabs means that serious illness from COVID and flu will be one less thing to worry about in the current climate.”

Dr Vanessa MacGregor, Consultant in Communicable Disease Control at UKHSA East Midlands, said:

“Whilst flu is unpleasant for most people, it can be dangerous and even life threatening for some, so it’s fantastic to see so many eligible people claiming their free flu vaccine.

“As well as the over 65’s and those with long-term health conditions, there is good evidence that pregnant women have a higher chance of developing complications if they get flu, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. So, it is recommended that all pregnant women have the flu vaccine, whatever stage of pregnancy they’re at.

“In addition, we are keen to ensure that children are vaccinated as they can catch and spread flu easily and so vaccinating them also protects others who are vulnerable to flu, such as babies and older people.”

Dr James Chipwete, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) West Midlands Health Protection Consultant leading on flu, said:

“NHS colleagues have been doing an amazing job and working closely with Directors of Public Health in the region, and with our UKHSA scientists and clinicians, to ensure that people in the West Midlands are protected this winter.

“Flu and COVID-19 spread more quickly in winter and can cause serious illness, especially in people who are clinically more vulnerable, such as those with long term health conditions and people with suppressed immunity.

“We expect this to be a challenging winter, with circulation of a range of respiratory viruses including flu and COVID, now we are all mixing as we did before the pandemic. That’s why it’s vital that anyone in an increased risk group takes up the offer of their free flu jab and COVID booster. Don’t let the festive season be spoiled by illness, get your winter vaccinations as soon as possible.”

People can book their latest dose through the national booking system or by calling 119. You can also get a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine from a walk-in site without an appointment. People can find their nearest walk-in sites on the NHS website. 

In line with JCVI advice, those eligible for an autumn booster this year include:

  • residents in a care home for older adults and staff working in care homes for older adults
  • frontline health and social care workers
  • all adults aged 50 years and over
  • pregnant women
  • persons aged 5 to 49 years in a clinical risk group, as set out in the Green Book
  • persons aged 5 to 49 years who are household contacts of people with immunosuppression
  • persons aged 16 to 49 years who are carers, as set out in the Green Book.

For flu vaccinations, children aged two and three years of age plus school aged children are also eligible.