NHS issues flu jab SOS as winter nears
The NHS has launched an urgent flu vaccination campaign, with England’s chief nurse urging people to get protected before the most severe weeks of winter arrive.
National appeal for early vaccinations
Adults eligible for the free flu shot are being asked to act now to ensure full protection before the peak season. To support the effort, 2.4 million vaccination slots will open next week—enough to cover the population of Greater Manchester or even Botswana.
Flu season arriving earlier than usual
This year’s flu activity began more than a month earlier than expected, with case numbers already triple compared to the same period last year. The NHS is working to contain this early wave before it worsens.
Learning from Australia’s experience
Officials point to Australia’s record-breaking flu season as a sign that England may face a similar challenge if precautions are not taken swiftly.
Progress of the flu vaccine rollout
So far, NHS teams have administered more than 13.2 million flu vaccinations across England. Three in five care home residents—around 59.4%—are now protected, thanks to a strategy linking vaccination teams with care homes and offering mobile and local community vaccination services.
Vaccinating children
In total, 2.3 million doses have been given to eligible children, including about 400,000 two- and three-year-olds. However, this represents only one third (33%) of all toddlers who qualify for the vaccine.
“Getting vaccinated now means you’ll be protected when flu cases are at their worst,” said England’s chief nurse.
Author’s summary: The NHS urges early flu vaccinations as cases surge ahead of winter, aiming to curb illness and protect vulnerable groups nationwide.