Overview
- UKHSA reports flu test positivity has climbed to 10.9% from 8.2% and 6.1% in prior weeks, with the sharpest increases in children aged 5 to 14.
- The NHS has issued a ‘flu jab SOS’ and released 2.4 million appointments for next week, urging bookings via pharmacies, GP practices, the NHS App, online or by calling 119.
- More than 13 million flu vaccinations have been delivered so far, yet uptake remains low in key groups, including only about one third of eligible 2‑ and 3‑year‑olds and many under‑65s in clinical risk groups.
- Last winter saw 7,757 flu deaths in England, and UKHSA estimates the vaccine prevented around 100,000 hospitalisations, with protection taking up to 14 days to develop.
- Officials point to Australia’s record season as a warning and stress free NHS jabs for eligible groups, including older adults, risk‑group under‑65s, pregnant women, care home residents, carers, frontline staff and children.