New data from NHS England reveals a rise in winter viruses such as flu and Covid-19, prompting urgent calls for vaccination among at-risk groups. Despite an initial dip, hospitalisations from flu increased by 9% in the past two weeks. Meanwhile, hospital admissions related to Norovirus and Covid have also seen a day-to-day increase compared to the previous week.
In response, the NHS has administered over 18.6 million flu vaccines this season—more than half a million above last year’s figures. With winter viruses surging and pressure mounting on hospitals and ambulance services, thousands of free flu vaccine appointments remain available.
The NHS emphasizes that “flu can be serious, especially for older people and those at higher risk.” If you’re eligible, it’s not too late to get vaccinated this season.
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Who is eligible for a free flu jab? NHS guidelines identify six main groups that qualify for free vaccination. You may be entitled if you have specific health conditions, are pregnant, are aged 50 and above, or if someone you live with is at high risk. Protecting yourself also helps protect vulnerable household members.
Professor Meghana Pandit, NHS National Medical Director, said:
“It’s clear the NHS is facing challenging times this winter with a rise in patients admitted due to flu and other respiratory viruses. Cold weather is leading to more respiratory problems and injuries from falls, making A&E departments busier than ever. Our hardworking teams are doing everything to ensure patients receive the care they need. It remains vital for eligible people to come forward for vaccination and medical care.”
If you qualify for a free flu jab, you can book an appointment through your GP or at pharmacies, either online or via the NHS app if you are aged 18 or over. Some pharmacies offer free walk-in vaccinations, but availability varies, so it’s best to check locally.
Getting vaccinated is a simple and effective way to protect yourself and reduce pressure on the healthcare system during the challenging winter months.