The NHS in the South East is urging people on the Isle of Wight to get their flu jab now, as health leaders warn there are only weeks left before the worst of the flu season typically strikes.
Eligible individuals are being encouraged to come forward for vaccination to ensure they are protected ahead of the seasonal flu peak. This year, flu cases are already surging more than a month earlier than usual, with rates three times higher than the same period last year.
The warning follows Australia’s biggest flu season on record, which health experts say often serves as an early indicator of what to expect in England.
To make it as easy as possible for South East residents to get protected, over 293,000 vaccination appointments have been made available this week across GP surgeries, pharmacies, and community clinics. People are being urged to take advantage of the opportunity and book as soon as possible.
Caroline Reid, NHS South East’s Director of Commissioning, has said:
“Flu season tends to peak in early December – and that’s just over three weeks away. Since the vaccine takes up to two weeks to build strong protection, it’s really important that those most at risk get their jab as soon as possible.
“NHS teams across the region are working incredibly hard to make it easier and more convenient for people to get their vaccinations, so I’d encourage everyone eligible to come forward and book an appointment heading into winter.”
Latest data shows NHS teams have already delivered over 2.29million flu vaccines across the South East since the rollout began.
The vaccine is available for everyone aged 65 and over, under 65s in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, care home residents, carers, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, frontline social care workers, and health and social care staff. Children are also eligible for flu vaccination.
Parents are reminded to return school vaccination consent forms or to book appointments for children aged 2 to 3 to ensure they are protected ahead of the Christmas holidays.
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