The NHS is calling on eligible people in the North East and Yorkshire to get their flu jab as soon as possible so they and their families are fully protected for the winter months. Eligible adults can book an appointment at their local pharmacy, via the NHS App, GP practice, or visit nhs.uk/bookflu to find their nearest walk-in service.

In the North East and Yorkshire almost 2.7 million people have received their flu jab since the autumn and winter vaccination campaign began. Across England, the number of eligible people vaccinated has reached 16.9 million. The NHS is making it easier than ever to get a flu jab by rolling out the vaccine to nearly 4,000 local pharmacies.

NHS England’s Senior Communications Manager, Joshua Gardner, received his annual flu jab at a community pharmacy in Leeds.

“Getting my flu jab is an important part of my festive preparations,” Joshua said. “I’m looking forward to spending time with friends over the holidays, but cases of flu are sadly rising. Having this quick jab now, means my body has time to create the protective antibodies needed to protect me against the risk of serious illness.

“I get the flu vaccine because my transverse myelitis affects my immune system, putting me at higher risk. Staying protected is essential for my health.

“I urge everyone eligible to get their flu vaccine as soon as possible. It will protect you and reduce your risk of passing on to other people, too. I want to spread cheer, not flu and fear.”

Flu vaccines are available for everyone aged 65 and over, under-65s in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, care home residents and carers, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff, as well as children. If you are eligible for the flu vaccine, the NHS will usually let you know when you can book an appointment.

Flu can affect anyone but for people with certain long-term health conditions the effects can make it worse, even if the condition is well managed.

People should also have the flu vaccine if they have a long-term condition such as a heart problem, a chest complaint, kidney disease, lowered immunity, liver disease, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, a learning disability, or if they’ve had a stroke. This list isn’t definitive and your GP can assess the risk of flu making any underlying illness worse.

Dr Hamish McLure, Regional Medical Director for NHS North East and Yorkshire, said: “The flu vaccine will significantly reduce the risk of getting seriously ill or hospitalised from flu. Please check your local pharmacy, book an appointment online or call 119, or speak to your GP practice about your winter flu vaccine.”

• Pictured: NHS England’s Senior Communications Manager, Joshua Gardner, receives his flu jab from Trainee Pharmacist Ali Khan at Halton Pharmacy in Leeds.