South-west Londoners urged to get vaccinated to avoid ‘festive flu tidal wave’
NHS teams in South-west London are urging residents to get vaccinated to avoid “festive flu” amidst record levels.
With a “tidal wave” of flu infections leading to a 70 per cent increase in hospital admissions in recent weeks, the NHS is calling on eligible people to book their appointments immediately.
An average of 1,861 flu patients were in hospital every day last week – up from 1,099 in the previous week and 3.5 times higher compared to the same time last year, according to the health service.
Dr John Byre, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS in South-west London, who leads the local vaccination programme, said: “Every vaccination counts – we’re looking at how we can reach out to everyone eligible across South-west London to increase the number of people coming forward.”
The latest figures come as flu and Covid-19 vaccination uptake rates are still stooping below levels needed to prevent further rises in hospital admissions.
Vaccine uptake currently stands at 37 per cent for those in a clinical risk group, according to the NHS.
The national booking system for flu vaccination closes on December 19. After this date people will only be able to access the flu vaccine through their GPs and some pharmacies.
Professor Sir Stephen Powis, NHS National Medical Director, said: “The tidal wave of flu cases and other seasonal viruses hitting hospitals is really concerning for patients and for the NHS.
“I cannot stress enough the importance of getting booked in to protect yourself against serious illness and to avoid ‘festive flu’.”
In line with advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation, those currently eligible for a flu vaccine this year include pregnant women, children aged two or three years as well as primary and secondary school children, those aged 65 years and over and anyone in clinical risk groups.
To book a flu vaccination, go to: Book, change or cancel a free NHS flu vaccination at a pharmacy – NHS
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