By Gavin Mackintosh-
Children in year 7 have been offered a flu the vaccine for the first time this year, it has been revealed. Uptake in this year is higher than all other school groups, with more than a quarter (158,748) of Year 7 children vaccinated by the end of October.
Uptake is also the highest it has ever been in 2 and 3 year olds, at 47.6% and 49.4%, data published by Public Health England shows
The vaccine is aimed at protecting children from flu, and preventing them from passing the virus on to family members and others at greater risk of serious complications and death.
Uptake in healthcare workers is also ahead of this time last year. By the end of October, more than half (51.6%) of healthcare workers had already been vaccinated – over 100,000 more compared to the same period last year.
Uptake in healthcare workers is also reported to be higher than it was this time last year. By the end of October, more than half (51.6%) of healthcare workers had already been vaccinated – over 100,000 more compared to the same period last year.
England achieves some of the highest flu vaccine uptake rates in Europe for healthcare workers. Vaccination protects frontline staff – who are more likely to be exposed to flu at work while also providing indirect protection to vulnerable patients.
Vaccination protects frontline staff who are more likely to be exposed to flu at work, while also providing indirect protection to vulnerable patients. Pregnant women and people with long-term health conditions are encouraged to take up the vaccine too.
Dr Vanessa Saliba, Head of Flu at Public Health England, said:
”We have had an incredible start to the flu vaccination programme, with record uptake in 2 to 3 year olds and rates in over 65s – the highest since the 2005 to 2006 season. With over 30 million doses available this season, more people than ever are being offered a free flu vaccine.
The vaccine is the best defence against flu and it is more important than ever this year as COVID-19 will be circulating during the flu season.
Flu can develop into a serious illness that requires hospitalisation, adding pressure on the NHS and social care when they will also be dealing with cases of COVID-19.