ROLL UP, ROLL OUT
Threat of winter ‘tripledemic’ sparks mass NHS vaccine drive starting TODAY – are you eligible?
Health officials have raised concerns over a drop in the uptake of the flu vaccine
BRITS are being warned of the "real" threat of a tripledemic this winter, as the NHS rolls out flu and Covid-19 vaccines.
Jab appointments opened last week for those eligible, including older people, care home residents and people with health conditions, with shots set to be given from October 3.
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Some 11million people have been invited to come forward for protection, NHS England said.
Health officials have concerns about a fall in the uptake of the flu vaccine, after it emerged the illness had caused at least 18,000 deaths in the last two years.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), there was a drop in people having the jab across all eligible groups in England last year.
A little over four in 10 (41.4 per cent) people in clinical risk groups were vaccinated last winter compared with 49.1 per cent in the previous year.
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Meanwhile, the number of pregnant women jabbed fell to 32.1 per cent from 35 per cent, and uptake among two and three-year-olds was around 44 per cent, down from 42.3 per cent and 45.1 per cent respectively.
Steve Russell, national director for vaccinations and screening at NHS England, said: "With new figures showing thousands of deaths associated with Covid and flu in recent years, it is clear that the threat of winter viruses is all too real, and it is vital that anyone eligible takes up the offer to get vaccinated.
"There are many slots still available with GP practices, pharmacies and other NHS teams offering quick and easy appointments, so if you have not booked yet then please do using the NHS website, NHS App, or by calling 119 - it could keep you out of hospital this winter."
Children and pregnant women started getting vaccinated against flu on September 1.
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Health teams in parts of London are visiting schools, while a Bluey-themed vaccine clinic has been set up for children in south-east Hampshire.
Last month, a new vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was also rolled out for the first time in the UK, with pregnant women and adults aged 75 to 79 invited to book.
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Mr Russell added: "With the risk of a 'tripledemic' of winter viruses - Covid, flu and RSV - if you are pregnant or aged 75 to 79, it is also so important that you join those who have protected themselves against RSV in the last month to boost your or your child's protection against a very nasty illness."
Julie Yates, deputy director of immunisation programmes at the UKHSA, said: "Every year we're seeing many of those at greater risk of getting seriously ill from winter viruses not getting their vaccines, with many thousands ending up in hospital and far too many tragically dying.
"Some of these 'missing million' may not realise they are more vulnerable, but if you are invited for a flu, RSV or Covid-19 jab then it is because you are at greater risk.
"Those with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women, young infants and older people will be among those eligible for some or all of these life-saving vaccines.
"So if invited don't delay, get the vaccines. And if you're unsure if you're eligible or have any concerns please do speak with your GP surgery or local pharmacist."
'It's so important'
Paul Rees, chief executive of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA), said: “The country’s dedicated army of highly experienced pharmacy teams stand ready to protect millions from Covid and flu with vaccinations.
"Their local service is an essential part of our defence against seasonal illnesses and future pandemics.
“This is yet another powerful reason to protect and nurture our amazing local pharmacy network which has suffered so badly from cuts.
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"Pharmacies are hugely trusted by their communities, are convenient and expert, and can offer help and advice on people’s doorsteps.
“It’s so important for everyone invited to get a vaccine, which offers great protection against these seasonal diseases which in some cases can make people seriously ill.”
Everything to know about the flu jab + who is eligible
The NHS offers a free flu jab to those most at risk of getting the virus so if you qualify then you can get it free anywhere that offers it.
This can be at your doctor's surgery as well as supermarket pharmacies like high street favourites like Boots, according to Claire Nevinson, Superintendent Pharmacist at Boots.
"Flu is an unpleasant virus that can make you feel very unwell, and getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself and help reduce the spread of the virus to others this winter," she said.
"I encourage all those eligible for a free NHS flu jab to book their appointments as soon as possible."
Am I eligible?
If you're not in the eligible groups entitled to a free vaccination listed below, you can pay for a flu jab at certain stores.
- All children aged two and three
- All children in primary and all children in school Years seven to 11 in secondary school
- Children aged six months to 17 years with certain long-term health conditions
- Those aged six months to under 65 years in clinical risk group
- Pregnant women
- Those aged 65 years and over
- Unpaid carers
- Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals
- Frontline health and adult social care staff
Does the flu vaccination give you the flu?
“No, injected flu vaccinations contain a tiny amount of an inactive flu virus that cannot give you the flu," Claire said.
"Some people may experience a temporary raised temperature and aching muscles, and you may feel sore at the injection site, but these side effects tend to be mild and only last for a day or so.”
Does the flu vaccination have side effects?
“Yes, like any vaccination, it is normal to experience mild side effects after receiving a flu vaccination," Claire explained.
"These side effects are a result of your body's natural immune response as it builds protection against the flu virus," she added.
"The most common side effects, such as a sore arm, fever or fatigue are generally mild and tend to resolve within one to two days.
"To help your body recover and ease any discomfort, you can consider taking paracetamol if it’s suitable for you, stay well-hydrated, and ensure you get plenty of rest.”
Do you need a flu vaccination only once in your life?
“No, the viruses that cause flu change every year, which means the type of flu virus the vaccinations are designed to prevent this year will differ from last year," the pharmacist said.
"The protection from a flu vaccination also declines with time so it’s important to have a flu vaccination annually.”
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