People across Devon urged to get the flu jab ahead of Christmas

People across the South West are being urged to get vaccinated before Christmas to protect themselves and their loved ones during festive celebrations.

Health chiefs are encouraging eligible residents to come forward for their flu jab, with vaccines also available against Covid-19 and RSV for vulnerable groups.

The jab is typically available for adults aged 65 and over, people with certain health conditions or a weakened immune system, pregnant women and those who are main carers for the elderly or disabled.

A children’s flu vaccine is available for school age children plus two three-year-olds and those with certain health conditions.

Flu levels are continuing to increase across the UK, with thousands of hospitalisations occurring every year.

With families and friends gathering indoors over the festive period, the NHS says vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness and hospitalisation.

Primary school-aged children in the South West achieved a 35.4% vaccination uptake rate, exceeding the national average of 32.6%. Several areas are also showing strong uptake among adults aged 65 and over.

Flu can lead to serious complications for people living with respiratory and heart conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or chronic neurological conditions; however, uptake among at-risk groups in the South West remains at just 24.7%.

With Christmas gatherings bringing together multiple generations, the UK Health Security Agency South West is emphasising that vaccination remains the best defence against serious illness.

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.”

Dr Matthew Dominey, consultant in public health and screening and immunisation lead for NHS England South West, said: “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.”

Experts say that beyond vaccination, simple measures can help keep everyone healthy this Christmas. Staying at home (if you can) when you have symptoms of flu or Covid-19 helps protect vulnerable family members. If you need to go out when unwell, wear a mask around other people.

Catching coughs and sneezes in a tissue, regular handwashing and opening a window when meeting others indoors can all help reduce the spread of respiratory infections during festive gatherings.

The flu vaccination programme continues throughout winter, say health chiefs. Eligible groups for free flu vaccination include children aged two to 17 years, adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, people with certain long-term health conditions, frontline health and social care workers, carers, and close contacts of immunocompromised individuals.

Appointments can be booked through the NHS national booking system, GP surgeries or local pharmacies.

For more information about flu vaccination, visit: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/