320,000 people in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent still to take up flu vaccine offer

The NHS in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent is urging people to come forward for their winter vaccinations, with 320,094 people still to receive their flu jab and 68,332 yet to have their COVID-19 vaccination.

As winter approaches, the risk of respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) rises significantly. Anyone who’s eligible for a vaccination is encouraged to get vaccinated ahead of Christmas to reduce the risk of illness spreading and avoid potential disruption to festive plans with family and friends.

Both booked appointments and walk-in sessions are available across local pharmacies, GP practices and community drop-in clinics. Appointments can be made via the NHS App, through your local GP practice, online at www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/ or by calling 119.

Dr Steve Fawcett, Clinical Director for Urgent and Emergency Care for NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board, said: “Every year, we see people becoming seriously unwell with flu, COVID-19 and RSV during the winter months, many of whom could have been protected through vaccination.

“Getting vaccinated now is the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness and to help keep urgent care services available for those who need them most.

“Please don’t leave it too late. Book your free vaccine and help protect yourself, your family, and your local NHS this winter.”

Dr Abdi Ali, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust, said: “Respiratory illnesses such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV can lead to serious complications, especially for people with lung conditions or weakened immune systems.

“As a respiratory consultant, I see every day the impact that these viruses can have on people’s lives and how important vaccination is in preventing serious outcomes.

“Getting vaccinated only takes a few minutes but could help you avoid hospital and enjoy a healthier Christmas.”

Each winter, thousands of children in the UK, even those with no underlying health conditions, need hospital care because of flu.

Sandra Bloor, Team Lead for Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust’s School Aged Immunisation Service, said: “Flu can be a really unpleasant illness for children and young people, and the risk of other family members getting the virus increases if they’ve not received the flu vaccine. We would hate for it to spoil your Christmas. The nasal spray only takes a moment, it’s gentle and painless, and it’s such an easy way to help protect your little ones this winter.

“If your child missed their school session, don’t worry, you can book a catch-up appointment by calling the School Age Immunisation Service on 0300 124 0366 (lines open 8:30am–3:30pm, Monday to Friday).

“And remember, children aged 2–3 and those with underlying health conditions can get their flu vaccine at their GP practice. Let’s keep our kids well and make sure they enjoy every bit of the festive season.”

A flu vaccine injection is available that does not contain gelatine. If you do not want your child to have the nasal spray vaccine, speak to the person vaccinating your child or ask for the flu vaccine injection on the school consent form.

You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:

• are 65 years and over
• are pregnant
• are aged 6 months or over with certain long-term health conditions
• live in a care home
• live with someone who has a weakened immune system
• are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
• are a child aged 2 (on 31 August 2025) to 17 years
• are a frontline health or social care worker.

You can get the free NHS COVID-19 vaccine if you:

• are aged 75 years and over
• are a resident in a care home for older adults
• are immunosuppressed and aged 6 months and over.

The NHS also recommends the RSV vaccine to pregnant women and older adults, as well as the pneumococcal vaccine for people aged 65 and over, to help protect against serious illnesses that are more common in the winter, such as pneumonia.

You can access more information on recommended vaccinations and eligibility at www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/

To find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination appointment in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent (if you’re aged 5 years or over) visit: the Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care System website. 

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Watch a video from Respiratory Consultant, Dr Abdi Ali, talking about 7 simple ways to prevent pneumonia, including vaccination: https://youtu.be/hjG6jG-4LWY