Public urged to get flu jabs this winter to help the NHS

It comes after health officials said flu placed a greater strain on hospitals than Covid-19 last year.

Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu led to more than 14,000 excess deaths in the winter of 2022/23 and more than 10,000 children were admitted to hospital with the illness.

But modelling carried out by the UKHSA shows that the flu vaccine programme prevented more than 25,000 hospital admissions last winter.

Now, the body is urging vulnerable groups, such as pregnant women, young children and people with chronic conditions to come forward for their jabs.

Brits can get their flu jabs now. (Image: PA)

Brits urged to get their flu vaccine this winter

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr Thomas Waite said: “Flu and Covid circulated last winter causing significant peaks and resulting in thousands of hospitalisations and deaths. It is important that we are protected against both.

“Vaccination is our strongest form of defence so if you are eligible, please come forward and get your jabs as soon as possible.”

Back in August, it was announced that the flu and Covid-19 vaccine programme would be brought forward following the discovery of the BA.2.86 variant of Covid-19.

Some Brits have already received their jabs with walk-ins open from September 11 rather than in October as previously planned.

The UKHSA said the move would lead to greater protection against illness, particularly for the most vulnerable, as well as reducing the impact on the NHS.

Brits who are eligible for the jabs can book a slot via the NHS website, by downloading the NHS app, or by calling 119.

Parents of children aged two and three on August 31 should book a nasal spray flu vaccine for them via their GP.