Senior doctors working in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire have issued a collective plea for those who are eligible to get the winter flu vaccine, saying it has a proven ability to keep vulnerable people safe and out of hospital.
All people aged 65 and over are among those who from today, Wednesday 1 October, can receive a flu vaccination for free on the NHS.
Others who are also being encouraged to get protected include under 65s who have been identified as clinically at-risk, care home residents, people who share a home with someone who has a weakened immune system and frontline health and care workers.
While most people in these groups should have already received an invitation from the NHS to book their vaccination, individuals do not need to wait to be contacted before making an appointment.
Each year, thousands of people across the region will feel the unpleasant side effects of flu, but for those who are older or vulnerable, the risks posed by the virus can be much greater.
Dr Sara Bonfield, Critical Care Medicine Consultant, Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Flu is not just a bad cold. It can be very serious, lead to severe illness and even be life-threatening.
“Every winter, we treat patients admitted to hospital with complications from flu, and in the most serious cases, they may require lifesaving care in the intensive care unit.
“The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way for people to reduce their risk of becoming seriously unwell, and I strongly encourage everyone who is eligible to take up the offer, not only to protect themselves, but also their loved ones.”
There are a number of different ways in which people can arrange their flu vaccine appointment, with bookings available online through the NHS App and at www.nhs.uk/bookflu, or over the phone by calling 119.
From today, Wednesday 1 October, people looking to get their vaccine quickly and without delay can use the pharmacy finder tool on the NHS website to see which sites near them are offering on-the-day walk-in appointments.
Dr Barry Coakley, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “It may seem like we have only just said goodbye to summer, but getting the most vulnerable members of our community protected now will ensure they can see off the cold winter months, when we know flu tends to peak, with a strong level of immunity.
“Data tells us that the flu vaccine is a safe and effective way of not only keeping the most at-risk people well, but also supporting them to remain mobile, independent and, ultimately, out of hospital and in the comfort of their own home.
“This means that when the time comes to enjoy the social side of the winter months, such as Christmas and new year celebrations, people are able to spend time in the company of their friends and loved ones.”
For the 2024/25 winter season, the UK Health Security Agency estimates that the winter flu vaccine was able to prevent 120,000 people, which is equivalent to approximately two thirds of the population of Swindon, from being admitted to hospital.
People outside of the eligible groups can still get protected against flu by purchasing a vaccine from a high street chemist or supermarket pharmacy.
For more information about the winter flu vaccination programme, visit www.bswtogether.org.uk/yourhealth/vaccinations.
