NHS bosses in the South West have issued a last chance call for people to get their flu jab to be protected ahead of the festive holidays, as flu hospitalisations in the region surge by three quarters (76%) in just one week.

Latest data* shows the number of people in the South West in hospital with flu has gone up from an average of 79 a day in the week to 30 November to 139 a day in the last week (to 7 December).

And there is a 93% increase in the number of beds taken up by flu when compared to the same week last year (week to 7 December 2024).

It shows the NHS is facing its ‘worst case scenario’ December with the flu surge leaving the NHS facing its busiest winter yet – and no peak in cases in sight.

It comes as thousands of resident doctors are set to go on strike from 17-22 December, with fears this could cause major disruption for patients in the run up to Christmas.

The public can help the NHS and themselves by getting vaccinated as soon as possible.

Across the NHS, vaccinations are available from GP practices, pharmacies, hospitals, schools and a range of pop-up clinics and vaccine centres for those eligible. With more than two million vaccines delivered across the region so far this season.

Dr Trevor Smith, Regional Medical Director for NHS England – South West said: “The rapid jump in people in hospital with flu in the last week is a real concern.

“This surge in cases is earlier than usual and confirms our fears that we could experience our worst flu season in years, just as we hit our busiest time over the Christmas and New Year period.

“That’s why it’s so important for eligible people to come forward now to get their free flu vaccination to protect themselves but also help protect the loved ones they might celebrate within the coming weeks.”

It takes up to two weeks following a flu jab to gain maximum protection, but by getting the jab in the next few days, people will still have a high level of protection ahead of Christmas Day.

Dr Alasdair Wood, Consultant in Health Protection and Vaccine Preventable Disease Lead at UKHSA South West, said:

“This is your last chance to flu-proof your festivities before Christmas, but importantly, it is not too late. While it takes up to two weeks to build maximum protection, getting your flu jab now will still provide a high level of protection for the festive period.

“Simple hygiene measures also make a real difference in stopping flu spreading. If you have flu-like symptoms such as a high temperature, cough or feeling tired and achy, try to limit contact with others, especially those at higher risk. Wash your hands regularly, keep indoor spaces well-ventilated and if you need to go out while unwell, consider wearing a face mask.

“We are concerned we could see a further spike in flu cases in the New Year, so even if you miss getting vaccinated before Christmas, it is still worth coming forward. The vaccine remains the best defence against flu and getting it at any point during the winter will help protect you and those around you through the rest of the season.”

The NHS is encouraging everyone eligible for a free flu vaccine – including people aged 65 and over, those with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, and young children – to book their appointment now through their GP, local pharmacy, or NHS online services.

Details of local clinics are published online at NHS England — South West » Boost your immunity. Information on how to book an appointment for school-aged children who may have missed the flu vaccination at school is also available.

Weekly data now published by the NHS shows the average daily calls to 111 in the South West have gone up by almost 400 a day** in the last week. While nationally new monthly figures show there were more than 2.35 million A&E attendances in November – more than 30,000 more than the same period last year.

But this winter there are more ways to access care than ever before with pharmacies offering a range of advice and support, including prescriptions for seven common conditions.***

GP practices also offer consultations online, over the phone and in person with a range of qualified staff.

And if your unwell and not sure where to go NHS 111 can help get you to the best place for your condition, either by going online at 111.NHS.UK, on the NHS App or by calling 111.