FLU hit hospitals in the North West even harder last week, as a ‘tidal wave’ of infections led to a 28% increase in hospital cases across just seven days.

The NHS is encouraging eligible people to get vaccinated without delay if they haven’t done so already to avoid “festive flu” with 1153 patients with flu in hospital last week – up from 825 in the previous week.

Winter vaccinations are being offered at football clubs, supermarkets and Christmas events as the NHS braces itself for a rise in winter viruses as we head towards Christmas, in less than two weeks.

Latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows flu cases are currently highest among 5 to 14-year-olds, but adult cases are expected to rise significantly once schools and nurseries close for Christmas, as the NHS contends with a ‘quad-demic’.

Shoppers across region can add a flu jab to their Christmas shopping list with mobile vaccination vans located in supermarket carparks and town centres.

A Winter Wellness Day in Blackpool this week, which offered flu vaccinations, even featured an appearance from Father Christmas.

The effort to vaccinate as many eligible people as possible comes amid new fears of a ‘quad-demic’, with flu, RSV, COVID-19 and norovirus all reaching record levels for this time in the year, as the NHS braces for a long winter ahead.

People have just over a week left to book COVID-19 and flu vaccination appointments on the NHS online booking system, NHS App and 119 phone service – until the autumn vaccination programme officially ends on December 19.

The 119 service, which provides booking support for those unable to access online services, will also close for bookings on 20 December, but it will continue answering queries until 31 January.

Still, the NHS is urging more people to come forward so they can protect themselves and their families over the festive period and into the new year. 

Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning for NHS England – North West said:

“It normally takes around two weeks for a flu vaccination to offer maximum protection, meaning it’s vital that those wishing to be protected over the festive holidays get themselves vaccinated as soon as possible, it only takes a few moments to book your flu and COVID-19 vaccines online.

“NHS staff across the North West are working incredibly hard, with a rise in common respiratory illnesses impacting our services earlier than ever.

“Winter vaccines are the best way we can protect ourselves, while also helping to ease the workload on hospitals and the dedicated NHS workers who will be very busy during Christmas.”

Flu season usually peaks in December and January and the vaccine provides vital protection to prevent people from developing serious illnesses and ending up in hospital during the busy winter months.

It is still possible to book your vaccinations after 19 December through local NHS vaccination services, like pharmacies or walk-in sites. However, there will be fewer appointments, and you may need to travel further.

The NHS is also offering the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine to pregnant women from 28 weeks and older adults aged 75 to 79. Pregnant women are encouraged to book their vaccine via their maternity service or GP practice and older adults should wait to be invited by the NHS.

People can continue booking the flu and COVID-19 vaccine through local services until 31 January. After that, Covid vaccinations will close, and people will be required to wait for a future seasonal campaign unless they develop a new health condition or start treatment that severely weakens the immune system, in which case a clinician may advise vaccination sooner.

For those eligible for a free flu vaccine after 19 December, it will still be possible to book one by contacting their GP surgery or by finding a pharmacy that offers the NHS flu vaccination if you’re 18 or over.

Parents should also ensure that eligible children are protected against the flu with the nasal spray vaccine, as they are at a higher risk of catching and spreading the virus. If caught, it can lead to serious problems like bronchitis and pneumonia.

Sarah Johnson Griffiths, Consultant in Health Protection, UK Health Security Agency North West, added:

“We are seeing a sharp rise in flu cases. Flu can cause serious illness and even death and no one wants to see anyone in their family get sick or hospitalised over the festive season.

“The flu vaccine provides the best protection for you and your family and helps to reduce the spread of flu to those at risk. But time is running out to get vaccinated.

Don’t let flu spoil your Christmas. Check if you’re eligible and book your appointment today.”