The UK Health Security Agency estimates that flu vaccinations prevented approximately 104,000 hospital admissions and 7,100 deaths in England last winter. Bookings for flu jabs for adults aged 16-64 with long-term health conditions opened on 1 October. Vaccinations for younger age groups and pregnant women began on 1 September, with clinics available at GP practices, pharmacies, and through specialist school visiting teams.
The NHS in Essex is particularly urging eligible adults, especially those with long-term conditions or who are immunosuppressed, to get protected. Last winter, only 38% of people under 65 with long-term conditions in Essex received the flu jab. A total of 1,226 adults were hospitalised with flu-related illnesses, with 95% of these being emergency admissions.
Health officials are dispelling the misconception that flu is a minor ailment, emphasising that it can be fatal for individuals with underlying health issues. Dr Matthew Sweeting, Executive Medical Director, stated, "What might be a week of feeling rough for one person could land you in hospital or cause serious complications if you have long-term health conditions or are immunosuppressed. That can take months to recover from – or worse. Having flu could be a matter of life or death."
"If you are one of those people the only way to give yourself the best chance of protection is by having the flu vaccine," added Dr Sweeting. "The NHS has made it easier than ever to book and get this for those who meet the criteria so I would really urge them to do this before flu season really kicks in. A flu vaccination is not a nice-to-have. It’s essential."
The vaccine works by enhancing the immune system's defence against the flu viruses expected to circulate this winter. It does not cause flu but prepares the body to fight infection. Full protection develops within approximately two weeks, making early vaccination crucial for staying well throughout the winter months.
Dr Sweeting further explained, "Flu risk isn’t just about age. If you are younger but have a long-term condition such as significant asthma, heart disease, diabetes or a weakened immune system, your risk of becoming seriously ill from flu can be substantially higher than someone of the same age who is otherwise healthy. A pregnant woman needs protection not just for herself, but for her unborn child too."
Eligible individuals can book their flu vaccination appointments through their GP practice or at participating pharmacies. Further information on vaccination sites across Essex is available via links provided by the NHS.
