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The chief of the NHS in England, Sir Jim Mackey, is cautioning that the UK is bracing for a prolonged flu season. He emphasized that this winter is anticipated to be one of the most challenging seasons the health service has ever encountered. The early escalation in flu rates is causing concern as the winter vaccination campaign has just commenced, leaving numerous vulnerable individuals without protection.
NHS England is urgently appealing to those eligible for the free vaccine to swiftly come forward for their flu shot. Despite over 13 million people receiving the vaccine this year, the numbers are still more than 5 million lower than last winter. Sir Jim expressed his unease, stating, “There’s no doubt this winter will be one of the toughest our staff have ever faced.” Reflecting on Australia’s record-breaking flu season, he anticipates similar challenges for the NHS in the upcoming months.
Individuals aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and those with certain long-term health conditions can avail of a free flu jab on the NHS. Appointments can be scheduled online, via phone at 119, or at local pharmacies and GPs. Children aged two to 16 can also receive a nasal spray vaccine to prevent the spread of flu. Additionally, flu vaccines are available for purchase at high street chemist shops and some supermarket pharmacies.
Recent data indicates that the last three years have witnessed two of the worst winter flu seasons in the past decade. This trend is partially attributed to the resurgence of the virus post-Covid restrictions, coupled with low immunity levels. With flu rates currently triple the usual levels for this time of year, health experts predict the virus will soon spread to older age groups. Duncan Burton, England’s chief nursing officer, stressed the importance of getting vaccinated before the peak of the flu season to safeguard against serious illness and hospitalization
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