Largest Ever Flu Jab Drive To Save Thousands Of Lives

THE biggest flu jab campaign seen in the UK is under way in a bid to prevent tens of thousands of deaths this winter.

- Hanna Geissler

Experts have warned that the condition could claim as many as 60,000 lives – fuelled by waning immunity and an unpredictable influenza season.

There were zero deaths recorded by Public Health England (PHE) last year, and unusually low rates worldwide have made it difficult for scientists to foresee which strains will circulate in the next few months.

A triple whammy resurgence of flu, Covid-19 and other respiratory viruses could spell disaster for the NHS.

More than 35 million people are eligible for a jab this winter and 30 million will be offered top-up Covid-19 doses.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: “This year we are rolling out the largest flu vaccine programme in our history, alongside the new Covid-19 booster vaccine rollout.

“Both are important to provide vital protection not only to yourself but also your loved ones, while also helping to ease pressure on the NHS.”

Mr Javid said coronavirus jabs were thought to have saved more than 130,000 lives in England alone. He added: “The Covid-19 vaccine programme is a fantastic example of how successful vaccination programmes can be.

“It is vital we continue that incredible progress with all those eligible ensuring they get both their flu and Covid-19 booster injections as soon as they are invited.”