The NHS is urging older adults not to miss out on their winter protection. Flu jabs for over 65s, RSV vaccines for those aged 75 to 79 if they’ve not had it before and COVID-19 vaccines for those anyone aged 75+ are still available, offering strong protection against serious illness.
Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (ICB) is encouraging people to take up the vaccinations they are entitled to as the NHS enters the part of winter when respiratory illnesses typically have the greatest impact.
Although many people assume the risk has passed after Christmas, January and February are often when respiratory viruses cause the most severe illness in older adults. Local health leaders are reminding eligible residents that there is still time to get protected.
Dr Fiona Head, Medical Director at Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB, said: “If you’ve been meaning to get vaccinated but just haven’t got round to it, please make it a priority. It’s one of the simplest steps you can take to protect your health this winter.
“Vaccines are well‑matched to the virus strains we’re seeing, and they continue to offer strong protection throughout the colder months. For people aged 65 and over, that protection is especially important as you are more at risk of developing complications like pneumonia which will put you in hospital.
National data shows that the average number of patients in hospital beds in England with flu last week hit 2,924 – a rise of 9% on the previous week.
Fiona added: “The extremely cold weather we’re having, coupled with more bugs circulating after Christmas get-togethers means that we are seeing our hospitals once again become very busy looking after people with breathing issues. Vaccination remains your best way to reduce the risk of ending up in hospital with an avoidable illness and help relieve pressure on local NHS services. If you’re eligible and haven’t yet taken up your vaccines, now is a very good time to do so.”
You can have a free flu jab if you:
- are 65 and over
- have a long term health condition
- are pregnant
- live in a care/nursing home
- are an unpaid carer for family or friends
- work in frontline health or social care
- are a child aged 2-3 (flu spray available at GP practices and pharmacies), or a child in reception to Y11 (flu spray given at school or available by calling 01462 427008 if your child has missed theirs).
You’re entitled to a RSV vaccination if you are:
- aged 75 to 79, or turned 80 after 1 September 2024
- pregnant (28 weeks or more)
Older adults only need 1 dose, which should protect them for several years. Contact your GP practice or antenatal team to have this vaccine.
You’re eligible for a COVID-19 vaccination if you are:
- aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2026)
- aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
- live in a care home for older adults