More than 80,000 people are missing out on the free flu jab

Only half of people aged over 65 in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent have had the free vaccine so far, meaning nearly 76,000 are currently missing out. The latest figures also show that over 12,000 people with long term health conditions and compromised immune systems have not taken up their free vaccine yet, despite early increases in flu cases and hospital admissions in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent.

Coughs, colds and other viruses spread more easily in winter when we spend more time indoors together. This year’s flu vaccine is being offered to those most at risk, including most children, pregnant women, people over 65 years old, care home residents and people with certain health conditions or weakened immune systems.

Matthew Missen, Consultant in Public Health at the NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent Integrated Care Board, said:

“Flu can be far more serious than many people realise, particularly for older adults and those living with long term health conditions. With the early arrival of flu spreading in the population, we are sadly already seeing increasing numbers of people admitted to hospital severely unwell due to flu infection.

“Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to protect yourself against the flu virus, and it’s free for those eligible due to being at risk. When invited or offered a flu vaccine by the NHS, please take this simple step to protect you, your loved ones and the wider community this winter.”

If you’re already attending an NHS appointment for another reason and are eligible for the flu vaccine, some organisations may be able to give you a jab while you’re there — so don’t hesitate to ask.

Marie Shortland, cabinet support member for public health, said:

“I really do encourage everyone eligible to come forward and get a flu vaccine this winter. The NHS locally is already seeing a rise in people with flu being poorly enough to need hospital treatment. The flu jab can help prevent symptoms from getting this bad and will help you get back on your feet quicker.

“I would urge everyone eligible to come forward for their jabs as soon as they can, with easy-to-book appointments or drop-in sessions now available closer to home.”

If you’re eligible for a flu vaccine, you can: 

• Contact your GP surgery to book an appointment.
• Book a flu vaccination appointment at a pharmacy online or in the NHS App (if you’re aged 18 or over. You can also book a vaccination appointment for a child aged 2 or 3 years.)
• Find a pharmacy that offers free NHS flu vaccination where you can walk in and get vaccinated without an appointment (if you’re aged 18 or over).

Some people will be vaccinated at their school, through their maternity service or care home, or through their employer if they’re a frontline health or social care worker.

For more information about the flu vaccine and eligibility, visit the NHS website.