Chief Nurse Issues ‘Flu Jab SOS’ Appeal
England’s Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) has made an urgent appeal for everyone eligible for a flu vaccination to book their appointments promptly, as the flu season approaches its peak.
Early Warning on Flu Season
Duncan Burton recently highlighted an unusually early start to this year’s flu season, with alarming record rates among children and young people. The CNO reinforced this message, emphasizing the limited time left before the flu season typically intensifies.
“It is only weeks to go before the worst of the flu season typically bites,” said the Chief Nursing Officer, urging prompt vaccination booking.
Vaccination Availability and Eligibility
NHS England announced that 2.4 million vaccination slots will open next week. Flu vaccines are offered free to various groups:
- People aged 65 and over
- Under-65s in clinical risk groups
- Care home residents
- Carers
- Pregnant women
- Close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Children
Current Vaccination Progress
Since the rollout began in September, over 13 million flu vaccines have been administered across England. Notably, 59.4% of care home residents have been vaccinated, while 2.3 million eligible children have also received their flu jab.
“Teams across the country have delivered more than 13 million flu vaccines since the rollout began in September,” NHS England reported.
Timely vaccination remains the best defense to reduce flu impact this season.
Author’s summary: England’s Chief Nursing Officer urges eligible groups to get flu vaccinations now, with millions already vaccinated but an early, severe flu season demanding swift action.