The UK Health Security (UKHSA) is urging 10 groups of people to come forward for an “essential” vaccine this autumn in a bid to prevent unnecessary hospitalisations and even deaths. According to the health body, getting jabbed against the flu is “vital”. Online and over-the-phone bookings have already opened with the first appointments available from October 3.
Most eligible people will be contacted by their GP practice but if this is not the case you are advised to get in touch with your surgery. Without the vaccine certain vulnerable people could be at risk of “serious” lung and airway infections, the health body warned. In an update, the UKHSA said: “As we approach winter, it’s time for people at risk to be booked in for their free flu jab.
If you’re eligible, you need to know why it matters that you take up the offer. “Flu is far more than just a bad cold. For those susceptible, it can increase the risk of developing serious lung and airway infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse.
Flu spreads easily and can lead to hospitalisation - in some cases, even death. The flu virus is constantly evolving, which is why getting vaccinated each year is vital.” There are 10 groups eligible for the jab this year.
They are: Everyone aged 65 years and over Individuals under 65 with certain medical conditions, including children and babies over six months of age All pregnant women All children aged two and three years (provid.