The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), in collaboration with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the NHS, has launched the Get Winter Strong campaign to remind at-risk individuals to get their vaccinations in order to combat the onslaught of winter viruses. Recent data from the UKHSA shows that over the last two winters (October to May, 2022 to 2023 and 2023 to 2024), at least 18,000 deaths have been linked to flu, despite the previous winter being classified as relatively mild.
Flu’s Deadly Impact
The data reveals a stark reminder of the flu’s deadly nature, especially for older individuals and other vulnerable groups. Although pandemic restrictions and changes in social behaviour had led to a dramatic decrease in flu levels for several years, these recent mortality figures underscore the importance of vaccination against this dangerous virus. Alarmingly, there has been a noticeable drop in flu vaccine uptake rates across all eligible groups in England, compared to the previous year. While vaccination rates among older individuals remained relatively high, only 41% of people with long-term health conditions, approximately 44% of two- and three-year-olds, and just one-third of pregnant women received the flu vaccine last winter.
The Importance of Vaccination
Evidence from last year’s flu vaccination programme demonstrated significant benefits, with a 30% reduction in hospitalisations among those aged 65 and older and a 74% reduction for children aged 2 to 17. In comparison, over the same two-year period, more than 19,500 deaths were linked to COVID-19. To mitigate the impact of winter viruses on at-risk populations and alleviate the NHS’s winter pressures, the UKHSA is set to launch a scaled-up Get Winter Strong campaign on 7 October.
Targeting High-Risk Groups
This campaign will encourage eligible individuals to receive their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations promptly, focusing particularly on those at greatest risk. For the first time, the campaign will also promote the importance of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and whooping cough vaccinations for pregnant women. Last winter witnessed a sudden surge in hospitalisations, coinciding with a flu peak just before Christmas and again at the end of January.
Expert Advice
Dr. Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director of Immunisation at UKHSA, emphasised the importance of vaccinations for protection: With winter on the horizon, various dangerous viruses, including flu, are prevalent, which can sadly lead to thousands of fatalities each year. Getting vaccinated is your best defence. If you’re pregnant or have certain long-term health conditions, you are at greater risk of serious illness.”
Personal Experiences
Maryam Sheiakh from Manchester shared her traumatic experience when her daughter, Saffy, was hospitalised with flu two years ago. “I was seriously concerned we might lose Saffy. Watching her struggle to breathe was heartbreaking. I urge all parents to vaccinate their children,” she implored.
Easy Access to Vaccines
As of last week, millions of eligible individuals in England can now book their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations through the NHS, with appointments commencing from 3 October. Pregnant women and older adults should consult their maternity services or GP practices to arrange RSV vaccinations.
A Call to Action
Steve Russell, NHS National Director for Vaccinations and Screening, reiterated the urgency: “The data revealing almost 20,000 deaths linked to flu over the past two winters is a shocking reminder of its danger. I encourage those eligible to book their vaccine appointments promptly.”
The Get Winter Strong campaign will run for 10 weeks, featuring broadcasts on TV and radio, outdoor posters, and social media outreach.