Tejal Somvanshi
The NHS has started its winter vaccination campaign to protect those most at risk from serious illness as COVID-19 and flu cases show concerning increases. Health officials warn that COVID-19 hospitalisations have jumped by 60% following the emergence of the XFG variant in May.
Data also shows early signs of rising flu cases and a 50% increase in rhinovirus infections, likely linked to schools reopening after summer break. With 2025 on track to be the busiest year ever for A&E and ambulance services, the NHS is taking stronger measures to prepare for winter pressures.
“It’s concerning to hear flu and COVID-19 cases are already creeping up ahead of winter – but vaccinations remain our best defence against these viruses and can be lifesaving,” said Dr Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England
The vaccination program offers clear eligibility guidelines. Flu jabs are available for everyone 65 and older, under-65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, close contacts of immunosuppressed people, frontline health and social care workers, children, and pregnant women.
COVID-19 vaccines are more limited this year, available only to adults 75 and over, care home residents, and people who are immunosuppressed, following advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation.
For the first time, parents can get flu vaccines for two and three-year-olds at high street pharmacies, making protection more accessible for busy families. The NHS has introduced mobile vaccination buses, family drop-in sessions, and expanded pharmacy services to reach more people.
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The NHS has already sent over 12 million invites via email, with more coming through the NHS App, text messages, and letters. People can book appointments via the NHS App, their GP, online at nhs.uk/bookflu or nhs.uk/bookcovid, or by calling 119. Walk-in options are also available using the NHS walk-in finder.
Health Minister Karin Smyth emphasized: “Vaccines save lives and with flu and COVID-19 cases already rising, I urge all those eligible to come forward and prevent sickness before it happens.”
Last winter, the NHS delivered more than 18.5 million flu vaccinations and 9.8 million COVID-19 jabs. Despite this effort, respiratory illnesses still caused over 450,000 hospital bed days, highlighting the critical importance of vaccination.
The NHS also recommends RSV vaccines for pregnant women and adults aged 75 and over (with catch-up for those aged 75–79 turning 80 after 1 September 2024), as well as pneumococcal vaccines for those over 65.
