NHS Issues Urgent ‘Flu Jab SOS’ as UK Braces for a Harsh Winter
The UK is being warned of a long and difficult flu season ahead, with NHS leaders raising the alarm and urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Sir Jim Mackey, the head of NHS England, has said there’s “no doubt” this winter could be one of the toughest the health service has ever faced.
Flu rates have started climbing earlier than usual this year, which is worrying health officials because the winter vaccination campaign has only just begun. Millions of people — especially those in vulnerable groups — are still unprotected. As a result, NHS England has launched what it’s calling a “flu jab SOS,” encouraging everyone eligible for a free vaccine to book their jab right away.
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So far, over 13 million people have received their flu shots this year. But that’s still more than 5 million fewer than at the same point last winter. The numbers are concerning because Australia recently went through its worst flu season on record, with over 410,000 cases — a potential warning sign of what could happen in the UK in the coming months. Sir Jim admitted that the idea of a drawn-out flu season has been keeping him awake at night, saying hospitals could be at full capacity from December through to March.
People most at risk — including those aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and anyone with long-term health conditions — can get a free flu jab through the NHS. Appointments can be booked online, by calling 119, or by visiting local GPs or pharmacies. Children aged two to sixteen are also being offered a nasal spray vaccine, mainly to help stop the virus from spreading. Those not eligible for a free jab can still buy one from pharmacies or some supermarket clinics.
Recent years have already brought some of the worst flu seasons in the past decade, largely because immunity dropped after the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown restrictions. Nearly 8,000 people in the UK died from flu last year, and the 2022–23 season saw nearly double that number. Currently, flu infection rates are about three times higher than normal for this time of year, with most cases being reported among children and young people. But health experts warn it’s only a matter of time before it spreads to older and more vulnerable groups.
Duncan Burton, England’s chief nursing officer, added that there are only a few weeks left to get maximum protection before flu activity peaks. He urged people not to delay, saying the vaccine is proven to be safe and effective — helping prevent serious illness, hospitalisation, and even death.
As the country heads into what could be one of the toughest winters for the NHS, the message is clear: if you’re eligible, now is the time to roll up your sleeve and get your flu jab.
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