The UK Health Security Agency has issued a stark warning, urging vulnerable groups to get vaccinated against influenza as cases surge ahead of the Christmas period. The public health body is particularly concerned about the South West of England, where an earlier-than-usual flu season is threatening to create a 'long and drawn-out' winter for the NHS.
Vaccination Remains 'Best Protection' Against Severe Illness
With families planning to gather indoors over the festive season, health officials are stressing that the flu jab continues to offer the strongest defence. Dr Fiona Neely, a consultant in health protection at UKHSA South West, emphasised the urgency, stating that while the region is leading in uptake, more eligible people need to come forward.
"Christmas is a time for bringing families together, but winter viruses don't take a holiday," Dr Neely said. She highlighted a critical timeline, noting that it takes around two weeks to develop optimum protection after vaccination. Getting the jab now ensures protection is in place for the height of the celebrations.
Who is Eligible for the Free NHS Flu Vaccine?
The NHS rolled out its annual flu vaccination programme in two key phases this autumn. The following groups became eligible from 1 September 2025:
- Pregnant women
- All children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025
- Primary and secondary school-aged children (from Reception to Year 11)
- All children in clinical risk groups aged from 6 months to under 18 years
A second, broader phase began on 1 October 2025, extending eligibility to:
- Those aged 65 years and over
- Adults aged 18 to 65 in clinical risk groups
- Residents of long-stay care homes
- Carers and close contacts of immunocompromised individuals
- Frontline health and social care workers
Simple Steps to Stay Well This Winter
Alongside vaccination, the UKHSA advises the public to adopt simple hygiene measures to limit the spread of respiratory viruses like flu and COVID-19. People experiencing symptoms are strongly advised to stay at home to protect vulnerable relatives.
If you must go out while unwell, wearing a face mask can help prevent transmission. Other effective measures include using tissues to catch coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly with soap, and opening a window when meeting indoors to improve ventilation.
Dr Matthew Dominey, consultant in public health for NHS England South West, reinforced the message. "The flu vaccine is our best defence against flu, and if you’re vaccinated, you’re much less likely to end up in hospital," he stated, encouraging people to use walk-in clinics, GP appointments, or local pharmacies.
Appointments for the free NHS flu vaccine can be booked via the national booking system, through your local GP surgery, or at participating pharmacies. For more detailed information, visit the official NHS flu vaccine webpage.
