This morning the Government has launched a campaign to make sure 30 million people get their flu vaccine this winter. The campaign follows new research from Public Health England which suggests that people who tested positive for both flu and Covid-19 were more than twice as likely to die, compared to those with Covid-19 alone. The research also found that those with co-infection of the two viruses were more at risk of severe illness.
It is really important that everyone who needs a flu vaccination takes up the offer to have one. We all have a part to play in controlling the spread of coronavirus and protecting the NHS. We must wash our hands, cover our faces and make space, and take sensible precautions like getting a flu jab.
This year, the flu vaccination programme has been expanded to provide a free jab for 30 million people - the highest number on record - including,
- All primary school children, and, for the first time, Year 7 children.
- Two- and three-olds.
- The most vulnerable people, including adults aged 65 and over, those with long-term health conditions and pregnancy women.
- Household contact of people on the NHS Shielded Patient List and all health and social care workers who have direct contact with the people they care for.
Once uptake has been maximised in the most at-risk groups, the newly eligible 50-64-year olds will be invited for vaccination later in the season.
