Vulnerable groups are urged to come forward
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging all eligible groups to get vaccinated to protect themselves against a particular virus during Christmas celebrations. Its message comes after an earlier-than-usual flu season in the UK, which has raised concerns about a ‘long and drawn-out’ winter for the NHS.
The UKHSA’s latest message specifically concerns people living in South West England and encourages vulnerable groups to come forward for an influenza vaccination. As loved ones come together indoors during the festive season, it emphasised that vaccinations continue to be ‘the best protection against severe illness and hospitalisation’.
Dr Fiona Neely, consultant in health protection at UKHSA South West, said: “Christmas is a time for bringing families together, but winter viruses don’t take a holiday. It is encouraging to see the South West leading the way in protecting our communities against flu this winter. However, with Christmas approaching and flu levels rising, we need more eligible people to come forward for their free vaccination.
“It takes around two weeks to get optimum protection once vaccinated, so getting vaccinated now means you will have protection in place when it matters most. It is not too late to get your jab and help ensure everyone can enjoy the festive season safely.”
Flu vaccines aim to protect against the flu, which may be life-threatening for certain groups. Every autumn or early winter, the NHS offers these injections to people at higher risk of serious health complications.
According to the UKHSA, several key groups became eligible to book their flu vaccinations from September 1 this year. Another seven were then able to book from October 1. This applies not just to those in the South West, but to people all over the country.
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From September 1, 2025, this included:
- Pregnant women
- All children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025
- Primary school-aged children (from Reception to Year 6)
- Secondary school-aged children (from Year 7 to Year 11)
- All children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to less than 18 years
And from October 1, 2025, this encompassed:
- Those aged 65 years and over
- Those aged 18 years to under 65 years in clinical risk groups
- Those in long-stay residential care homes
- Carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person
- Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals
- Frontline workers in a social care setting without an employer-led occupational health scheme
- All frontline health care workers, including both clinical and non-clinical staff who have contact with patients
In the UKHSA update, Dr Matthew Dominey, consultant in public health and screening and immunisation lead for NHS England South West, also added: “As we head into the festive season, many of us will be coming together with our friends and family, increasing the risk of flu spreading. Although many eligible people have already come forward for their flu vaccine, levels of flu are continuing to rise in our communities.
“The flu vaccine is our best defence against flu, and if you’re vaccinated, you’re much less likely to end up in hospital. It can take up to two weeks to fully benefit from a flu vaccine, so getting vaccinated now means you’ll have the best protection over the festive period, protecting yourself and your loved ones.
“There are still plenty of opportunities to get your free NHS flu vaccine through walk-in clinics, GP appointments and at your local pharmacy. Get yours now.”
In addition to vaccination, the UKHSA stressed that several other straightforward measures can help everyone stay healthy this Christmas. People experiencing symptoms of flu or Coronavirus are advised to stay home to safeguard vulnerable family members.
However, if you must go out while unwell, wear a mask around others to prevent the spread of illness. Meanwhile, using tissues for coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly, and opening a window during indoor meetings can help, too.
You can book vaccination appointments through the NHS national booking system, your GP surgery, or local pharmacies. However, for additional details on flu vaccination, visit: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/
