The UK has seen a stark rise in flu-related deaths, with over 18,000 deaths recorded over the past two winters. As flu vaccine uptake declines, health authorities are sounding the alarm.
To combat this, the UKHSA, NHS, and DHSC have launched the Get Winter Strong campaign to encourage those at risk to get their vaccinations and reduce the burden of winter viruses.
Why the Flu Vaccine Matters This Winter
Flu, often underestimated, can be deadly. Over the last two years, it claimed 18,000 lives in the UK, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with long-term health conditions. Last winter, despite being relatively mild in terms of flu activity, saw a worrying drop in vaccine uptake.
Health experts are urging those eligible to get vaccinated, as the UKHSA’s Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam warned:
“As winter approaches, we see many dangerous viruses circulating, including flu, which tragically kills thousands each year.”
The message is clear: without widespread vaccination, flu could once again take a severe toll on those most at risk.
Declining Vaccine Uptake
What’s particularly concerning is the decline in flu vaccination rates, especially among vulnerable groups. According to UKHSA data from last winter:
- Over 65s: 77.8% received the vaccine, down from 79.9%
- People with long-term health conditions: 41.4%, down from 49.1%
- Pregnant women: Only 32.1% were vaccinated, compared to 35%
- Children aged 2-3 years: 44.4%, a slight increase from 43.7%
This drop in vaccine uptake leaves millions exposed, particularly as we enter a season where multiple respiratory viruses are expected to circulate.
The Get Winter Strong Campaign
In response to these figures, the UKHSA, NHS, and Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) have teamed up to launch the Get Winter Strong campaign, which started in early October.
This large-scale effort aims to raise awareness about the importance of getting vaccinated against flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), especially for those most at risk.
The campaign will span TV, radio, social media, and poster sites across England, urging people to book their vaccine appointments. It’s a robust push to protect vulnerable groups and reduce strain on the NHS, which faces its busiest period during winter.
Campaign Focus Areas:
- Flu Vaccines: Urging everyone eligible, especially older adults and those with long-term health conditions, to get vaccinated.
- COVID-19 Boosters: Reinforcing the need for COVID-19 boosters to mitigate the impact of the virus.
- RSV and Whooping Cough Vaccines: Encouraging pregnant women to get these vaccines to protect newborns from severe illness.
As the NHS National Director for Vaccinations, Steve Russell, emphasised:
“There were almost 20,000 deaths associated with flu over the past two winters. The vaccines are our best defence as we enter another challenging winter.”
Flu Vaccine Effectiveness
Despite the reduced uptake, evidence shows that last year’s flu vaccine was highly effective in preventing severe cases. According to health officials, the vaccine reduced hospitalisation rates by:
- 30% for those aged 65 and over
- 74% for children aged 2-17
These figures underscore the importance of widespread vaccination to prevent unnecessary hospital admissions and save lives during the winter months.
| Winter Season | Flu Vaccine Uptake (65+) | Flu-Related Deaths |
|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 77.8% | 18,000 |
| 2021-2022 | 79.9% | 19,500 (COVID-related) |
Time to Act
The Get Winter Strong campaign isn’t just about encouraging people to get a flu jab; it’s a critical effort to protect the UK population from a variety of winter viruses.
With the NHS already under strain, reducing the impact of flu, COVID-19, and RSV is essential to keeping the nation’s health services functioning smoothly.
For those eligible, booking a vaccination appointment has never been easier. You can schedule through the NHS website, the NHS app, or by calling 119 for free. With flu season fast approaching, it’s time to take action and protect yourself and your loved ones.
How to Book:
- NHS Website: Book directly through the site for flu and COVID-19 jabs.
- NHS App: Conveniently schedule and manage appointments.
- Phone: Call 119 for assistance with booking.
As winter approaches, safeguarding yourself from flu and other viruses is essential. Vaccinations offer a simple, effective defence, particularly for those at higher risk.
With flu claiming thousands of lives each year, the message from the UK’s health authorities is simple: don’t delay, get vaccinated today.
Sources: THX News & UK Health Security Agency.
