The NHS in Lincolnshire is reminding people to come forward for their flu jab as soon as possible, to make sure they and their families are protected in time for the New Year.

Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows flu cases are highest amongst those aged 5 to 14.  In addition, hospitals in England are managing record flu levels for the time of year, with a 350% increase in hospital flu cases compared to the same time last year.

“The increase in hospital flu cases compared to this time last year is stark and the best reminder as to why it’s so important for eligible people to get their flu vaccination,” comments Steve Clapton, Head of Immunisation and Screening, NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board.

“We have already given a huge amount of flu and Covid-19 vaccinations to people across Lincolnshire, which is great.  However, with the NHS locally and nationally under more pressure than ever this winter, I would urge anyone who is yet to get either vaccination to act now.”

It usually takes around two weeks after a flu jab to have maximum protection, meaning anyone who is still to be vaccinated should be able to achieve this by early in the New Year.

“Flu vaccinations will be available until 31^st March.  After 19^th December they can no longer be booked online, but you can still call 119 who will be able to signpost you to a local community pharmacy providing them.  Alternatively, you can search online for a local pharmacy offering flu vaccinations,” explains Steve.

A significant number of eligible children have already been given the flu vaccination in schools since September, however, parents/guardians of children who may have missed this should contact the School Aged Immunisation Service (SAIS), which is part of Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust (LCHS) – more information on how to contact the team can be found here Immunisations :: Lincolnshire Community Health Services NHS Trust.

After 19^th December it will not be possible to book Covid-19 vaccinations online, but it will still be possible to get a Covid-19 vaccination locally – you can find more information on our ‘Grab a jab’ page, with any Covid-19 outreach vaccination sessions being listed here COVID-19 vaccination sessions in the community – it is possible that more vaccination sessions will be added in the New Year, so please keep checking this page.

As well as flu and Covid-19, people with Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are being reminded they are at high risk during the colder winter months and, if they haven’t already done so and are eligible, should have the one-off pneumococcal vaccination, which is available from GP practices and local community pharmacies that offer a vaccination service.