NHS issues urgent warning as three deadly diseases spread across UK | UK | News
Authorities are urging people eligible for flu and Covid-19 vaccines to come forward to help ease pressure on the health service ahead of the winter months.
The announcement comes amid concerns from NHS England about a so-called “triple-demic” of flu, Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Bookings will open for millions of people from 9am on Monday – with appointments available on the NHS website, app or by calling 119.
Flu vaccines will be administered starting October 3 to people aged 65 and over, as well as people aged 18 to 65 in clinical risk groups and patients in long-term care homes.
Frontline social workers will also be eligible, as well as people who provide care to the elderly or disabled.
Those eligible for an autumn Covid booster include adults over 65, care home residents, staff, frontline health and social care workers and people in clinical risk groups, including pregnant women.
Michelle Kane, NHS England’s Director of Vaccinations, said: “Flu and Covid-19 vaccines are life-saving and our best defences against these viruses. It only takes a few minutes to book online or via the NHS app or 119, so I urge everyone who is eligible to do so, to protect themselves and those around them.
“We know that these vaccinations help more people stay healthy and avoid hospital admissions during the winter months, which is particularly important at a time when the NHS is expected to be under significant pressure. So it is vital that everyone who is eligible comes forward when invited to do so.”
The latest measure comes after pregnant women, toddlers and schoolchildren up to year 11 were urged to book an appointment for a flu vaccine, along with all young people aged six months to 18 years in clinical risk groups.
The NHS is also offering a vaccine against RSV for the first time this autumn.
It is available to women from the 28th week of pregnancy to protect their newborn, as well as to people aged 75 to 79.
Dr Julie Yates, deputy director of immunisation programmes at the UK Health Security Agency, added: “Many people who are more vulnerable to serious illness from respiratory viruses such as flu and Covid-19 are unaware that they are at higher risk and that they are eligible for these vaccines.
“If you are pregnant or have a particular chronic condition, you should be offered vaccinations. If in doubt, speak to a trusted nurse or doctor.
“Older people and young children with influenza are also much more likely to be hospitalised and should also get vaccinated as early as possible to ensure they are protected as winter approaches.”
