Chief Nurse Issues ‘Flu Jab SOS’ Appeal
England’s Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) has made an urgent call for those eligible to book their flu vaccination appointments ahead of the peak flu season.
Early Start to Flu Season Raises Concerns
Duncan Burton recently warned of an unusually early onset of this year’s flu season, highlighting particularly high infection rates among children and young people.
CNO’s Renewed Appeal
The CNO emphasized that only a few weeks remain before the flu season typically reaches its peak, urging eligible individuals to arrange their vaccinations promptly.
Vaccine Availability and Eligibility
NHS England announced that 2.4 million additional vaccination appointments will be made available next week. The flu vaccine is offered to:
- People aged 65 and over
- Under-65s in clinical risk groups
- Care home residents
- Carers
- Pregnant women
- Close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Children
Vaccination Progress So Far
Since the rollout began in September, NHS England data shows over 13 million flu vaccines have been administered nationwide.
Additionally, 59.4% of care home residents are now protected against flu, and 2.3 million vaccines have been given to eligible children.
“This year’s flu season had an ‘unusually early’ start – with particular concerns around high record rates of flu among children and young people.” — Duncan Burton
Summary: England’s Chief Nursing Officer urgently urges eligible groups to get flu vaccinations promptly, as this season has started early and poses significant risks, especially to children and vulnerable populations.