New data from NHS England has seen the health service urge certain groups of people to get vaccinated
A wide variety of people are still eligible to receive a free vaccine(Image: Getty Images)
New health data has seen the NHS once again urge certain groups of people to get vaccinated. Fresh figures from NHS England have confirmed that winter viruses are on the rise once again.
For instance, hospital admissions from flu have jumped by 9% in the past fortnight after the previous two weeks had shown signs that cases were actually dropping. Meanwhile, the average number of patients in hospital with norovirus and Covid were up on a day-to-day basis compared to the previous week.
Despite this, the NHS said it has delivered over 18.6 million flu vaccines this winter period, an increase of over half a million when compared to the same period last year. With a surge in winter viruses increasing pressure on hospitals and ambulance services, the NHS has highlighted that thousands of flu vaccine appointments are still available for many people.
18.6 million vaccines have been delivered already this winter period(Image: Getty Images)
Writing on X, the NHS said: “Flu can be serious, especially for older people and those at higher risk. Millions have been vaccinated this season, and there are still thousands of appointments available.
“If you’re eligible, it’s not too late to get yours.” Many people, especially vulnerable groups, could be eligible for a free flu vaccine.
Who is eligible for the free flu jab?
NHS guidelines reveal there are six distinct categories of people eligible for a free flu jab. You may be entitled to the jab if you need extra protection or if someone in your household does.
This can include people who:
- Are pregnant
- Have certain long-term health conditions
- Live in a care home
- Are aged 65 or over and those who will turn 65 by March 31, 2026
- Are the main carer for an older or disabled person or receiving carer’s allowance
- Live with someone who has a weakened immune system (such as someone undergoing chemotherapy)
NHS national medical director Professor Meghana Pandit said: “It’s clear that the worst is far from over for the NHS this winter, with hospitals again experiencing a rise in patients admitted with flu and other respiratory virus cases last week. The cold weather also means we are also seeing more vulnerable patients with respiratory problems in A&E and more injuries from slips and falls due to the icy conditions, so it remains an extremely busy time.
A rise in flu hospital admissions is being recorded(Image: Getty Images)
“Staff continue to work incredibly hard and we are seeing teams across the country pulling out all the stops to ensure patients get the care they need. It remains important that people come forward for care as usual and there are still plenty of opportunities to get vaccinated and get protected against flu.”
How to get the flu vaccine for free
If you qualify for a free flu jab, there are multiple ways to access it. For instance, you can ring your GP surgery directly to book an appointment for the vaccine, or you can arrange an appointment at a pharmacy either online or through the NHS app, as long as you’re 18 or older.
Certain pharmacies also provide the NHS vaccine free of charge and accept walk-ins without requiring a prior appointment. However, this service isn’t available at all pharmacies, but you can find your nearest pharmacy offering the complimentary vaccine here.
More information on the flu vaccine, including its ingredients, can be found on the NHS website here.