Kent and Medway health leaders are urging people to book their flu vaccination as the NHS gets ready for winter earlier than ever.
The national booking system has opened so eligible residents can make appointments ahead of the autumn vaccine roll out. Most eligible people can get the flu vaccine from 1 October. Some people, including anyone who is pregnant, can get vaccinated from 1 September.
Eligible people can also book appointments via the NHS App, or by calling 119, and don't need to wait to be invited to book before doing so.
The early start to the flu campaign comes after an extremely busy summer for the health service.
Protect yourself and your loved ones
Dr Kate Langford, NHS Kent and Medway's Chief Medical Officer, said: “Now is the time, if you are eligible, to make sure you are protected from flu this winter.
“Getting your flu vaccine is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones.
“It is extremely safe and provides the best protection against serious illness for those most at risk from flu.”
You are eligible for a free flu vaccine via the NHS if you are:
- Aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027)
- Aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions
- Pregnant
- The main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
- Living with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Living in a care home
- Homeless, staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter.
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer. Social care workers may also have the option of getting vaccinated at their GP or local pharmacy.
Last winter, nearly 19million people received their flu jab in England and around 104,000 hospitalisations are estimated to have been avoided last year.
Book your appointment as soon as possible
Medway Council’s Director of Public Health, Professor David Whiting, said: “Flu spreads quickly and can have serious consequences – particularly for the more vulnerable members of our communities.
“By getting vaccinated, you are not just protecting yourself – you are helping to protect family members, friends and colleagues who may be at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell. The flu jab remains our best defence against severe illness and can significantly reduce the risk of complications.
“If you are eligible for a free flu vaccine, I would encourage you to book your appointment as soon as possible. Winter can place considerable strain on health and care services – the earlier people come forward for vaccination, the better prepared we will be as a community.”
Months of protection
Kent County Council's Director of Public Health, Professor Anjan Ghosh, said: “With the recent heatwaves still a fresh memory, getting ready for winter is probably the last thing on people’s minds. But the NHS treated record numbers this summer and wants to do all it can to reduce demand for its services in the colder months to come.
"The flu vaccine takes just a few minutes and gives months of protection. You’ll also reduce the chances you pass flu on to others or get complications and need hospital care.
“If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations, please go to trustworthy sources like NHS Kent and Medway.”