Summary
The NHS is essentially ringing the last call bell at the pub, urging Brits to grab their free flu and Covid-19 jabs before the booking service closes on December 19th. It’s like trying to board the last train home before a storm hits, with the storm in this case being a predicted ‘tidal wave’ of winter illnesses that is already starting to swell. So, it’s crucial to get vaccinated now, not just to avoid being laid up in bed or hospital during Christmas, but also to help ease the strain on healthcare services already battling a surge in seasonal viruses.
Key Points
• The NHS has urged eligible Brits to book their free winter jabs before booking closes this week.
• After December 19, appointments for a free flu or Covid-19 jab via the National Booking Service will be closed.
• Over half a million vaccinations have been booked in the last five weeks, with NHS staff giving 28 million flu, Covid, and RSV vaccinations.
• Health services are bracing themselves for a “quad-demic” of winter illnesses – flu, Covid, sickness bug norovirus, and lung disease-causing RSV.
• Vaccinations can still be booked after December 19 through local NHS vaccination services, but there will be fewer slots available.
Background
• The flu and Covid-19 jabs offer vital protection to those at greater risk of severe illness and hospitalisation.
• The vaccination drive comes as hospitals face a ‘tidal wave’ of flu and winter illnesses.
• Last week, NHS bosses warned of an earlier-than-usual surge of flu and seasonal viruses, which saw hospitalisations for flu jump by 70 per cent in a week.
Future Implications
• The NHS is heading into an extremely busy winter season, with the latest data showing record numbers of patients heading to A&E.
• Health services are preparing for a potential “quad-demic” of winter illnesses.
• The surge in flu cases is adding additional strain on hospitals and health services.
• Health bosses have warned that a flu, Covid, or RSV infection could “derail” Christmas plans.
