Have you booked your flu jab? It’s not too late!
| Across the North West hospital admissions of people suffering serious flu symptoms are rising and with high levels of flu circulating within our communities, the NHS across the region are reminding eligible people it’s not too late to book flu vaccinations to protect vulnerable family, friends, and yourself, as soon as possible.
Latest published data shows 3,800 people have been hospitalised in the North West with flu in the week from 23 – 29 December 2024. Just over 2 million eligible people have been vaccinated this flu season, from 1 September to 15 December, but thousands are still eligible for the free flu vaccination and if you’re eligible for the vaccine you may also be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccination as well. The best way to prevent vulnerable family, friends and you catching flu is to get these important winter vaccinations. Complications from flu can seriously harm vulnerable people. Dr Linda Charles-Ozuzu, Regional Director of Commissioning and Senior Responsible Officer for the NHS Vaccination Programme in the North West said: “We currently have high levels of flu circulating in our region. The flu vaccination is the best way to help prevent serious disease and lessen symptoms should you develop flu. I’d encourage all eligible people to take the opportunity and have the vaccination as soon as possible. “It’s very important for people to have their flu vaccination and protect themselves, their family and friends who could be at risk. Flu is a serious illness and can have serious consequences to vulnerable people. Speak to your GP or Pharmacist about getting your flu vaccination”. If you’re eligible for an NHS flu vaccine, you can:
The last date you will be able to get your flu vaccination is 31 March 2025, but it’s best to get vaccinated sooner to protect yourself during winter. Those eligible for a free flu vaccination include:
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