People urged to get flu jabs due to increased risk of death
People who had the flu and coronavirus had their risk of death “more than doubled”, according to new research by health chiefs.
Public Health England (PHE) studies showed the chance of severe illness and death increased compared to those who had Covid-19 alone.
It comes as people across the West Midlands have been urged to get their flu vaccine – with 30 million people offered it nationally.
But some people have struggled to book an appointment for the jab – as demand is so high.
Dr James Chipwete, consultant in communicable disease control at Public Health England for the West Midlands, said: “Do not underestimate the seriousness of flu. It can be deadly. Getting a flu jab not only protects you, but also protects those around you from flu and other secondary infections and complications.
“We know the flu vaccine is safe and effective. This year protecting yourself against flu is even more important because Covid-19 rates are increasing.
“There is a risk of severe infection and complications arising from being infected with coronavirus and flu at the same time, particularly for people in an at-risk group. I strongly urge eligible individuals to take up the offer of this free flu vaccine.”
The research examined cases between January and April this year, with the co-infection putting the more vulnerable at risk – with more than half of older people, who had both conditions, having died.
All primary school children – and Year 7 youngsters for the first time – will be offered the flu nasal spray in school.
Two and three year olds will be offered the vaccine through their GP.
Vulnerable
The most vulnerable, including adults aged 65 and over, those with long-term health conditions and pregnant women, will be offered the flu vaccine first through their GP or pharmacy.
The flu vaccine will also be offered to household contacts of people on the NHS Shielded Patient List and all health and all social care workers who have direct contact with the people they care for.
However some people have reported difficulties booking to get the vaccine, with waiting lists of up to a month.
One GP said there had been a “huge uptake”, adding: “The next delivery is several weeks away and there are patients in at-risk groups who are having to wait.”
The newly-eligible 50 to 64 age group will be invited to get their jabs later this year, once the majority of the most at-risk groups had received their vaccination.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “This year more than ever, it’s vital that those eligible for the flu jab get it this winter so you can protect yourself, your family and the NHS.
"We’re pulling out all the stops to prepare for this uniquely challenging winter and we have enough vaccines for 30 million people this year, more than we’ve ever done before.”
