Chief Nurse Issues Urgent Appeal for Flu Vaccination
England’s Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) has launched an urgent appeal to everyone eligible for a flu vaccine to book their appointment promptly as the flu season approaches.
This appeal follows warnings from Duncan Burton last week about an unusually early start to this year's flu season, with particular concern over record-high rates among children and young people.
The CNO emphasized that there are only weeks left before the flu season reaches its peak, urging eligible individuals to secure their flu jab without delay.
Vaccination Availability and Eligibility
- NHS England plans to open 2.4 million new vaccination slots next week.
- Flu vaccines are offered to:
- People aged 65 and over
- Under-65s in clinical risk groups
- Care home residents and carers
- Pregnant women
- Close contacts of immunosuppressed individuals
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Children
Progress of the Vaccination Rollout
Since the campaign started in September, NHS England reports over 13 million flu vaccines have been administered nationwide.
Protection among care home residents has reached 59.4%, with 2.3 million vaccines given to eligible children.
“It is only weeks before the worst of the flu season typically bites. We encourage those eligible to book an appointment urgently.” — England’s Chief Nursing Officer
Related Information
A recent taskforce has also recommended increased ADHD training for healthcare professionals to improve patient care.
This message targets health professionals and eligible individuals to act swiftly to prevent severe flu impact this season.
Author's summary: England's Chief Nursing Officer urges eligible groups to promptly schedule flu vaccinations as an unusually early, severe flu season threatens, stressing swift action is critical.