NHS leaders urging people to get vaccinated as they warn of early flu peak

NHS leaders are urging eligible people to get the flu vaccine as soon as possible – as the latest data is showing that flu is likely to peak earlier than normal this year.

The number of children who tested positive for flu through hospital surveillance testing is 31%, which is much higher than the 8% from the same time last year. During a typical flu season, the peak of adult flu cases and related hospital admissions usually follows four weeks after children’s numbers have peaked, so NHS organisations are preparing for an adult flu peak ahead of Christmas.

Dr Tim Taylor, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, said: “We know that flu and other respiratory illnesses can be life-threatening, especially for the most vulnerable people. And with flu expected to peak earlier than usual, we’re keen to encourage eligible people to get vaccinated as soon as possible so they’re protected in time.

“It’s quick and easy to book the vaccine via the National Booking System and you can choose a pharmacy location convenient to you.”

Kim Wynn, Deputy Director and Lead Nurse for Infection, Prevention and Control at Chesterfield Royal Hospital said: “Flu can make people feel very unwell and for some people it can be very serious. Having the vaccine also lowers the risk of passing it on to others particularly those who are most vulnerable.

“There is still time to get your flu jab. Protect yourselves and others from the flu virus by getting the vaccine. Contact your GP or ask your pharmacist if you are eligible for the free flu vaccine.

“If you do get flu after having the vaccine it is usually milder and you will recover quicker.”

The following people are eligible for the flu vaccination:

• People aged 65 – 74: book via the National Booking System
• At risk people aged 6 months to 65 years: book via the National Booking System
• Pregnant women: via their GP surgery, through their ante-natal appointment at hospital, or at participating pharmacies.
• Healthy school age children (reception to year 11): nasal spray administered at school
• Children aged 2 or 3 years (on 31 August 2025): nasal spray at GP surgery or community pharmacy
• Frontline health and social care workers
• Household contacts of immunosuppressed people: book via the National Booking System
• Carers (those who are eligible for a carer’s allowance, or those who are the sole or primary carer of an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill): book via the National Booking System

Bookings are now open on the National Booking System or by phoning 119.

The NHS is working with partner organisations and groups to try to increase flu vaccine uptake in Derby and Derbyshire.