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NHS Urges Flu Shots as Viruses Surge
9 Jan
Summary
- Hospital admissions for flu increased by 9% in two weeks.
- Over 18.6 million flu vaccines administered this winter.
- Thousands of flu vaccine appointments are still available.
The NHS is intensifying its call for vaccinations as new data reveals a resurgence of winter viruses. Hospital admissions due to flu have seen a notable 9% increase over the past two weeks, following a brief period of decline. Concurrently, daily hospital admissions for norovirus and Covid-19 have also risen compared to the preceding week.
This winter, the NHS has successfully administered over 18.6 million flu vaccines, marking an increase of more than half a million compared to the same period last year. Despite these efforts, thousands of flu vaccine appointments are still accessible for many, particularly for vulnerable groups who are eligible for a free jab.
NHS national medical director Professor Meghana Pandit highlighted the ongoing strain on the health service, with cold weather exacerbating respiratory problems and increasing A&E visits due to slips and falls. She emphasized that staff are working tirelessly and urged people to seek care as needed, reinforcing the continued availability of flu vaccinations.
