Kent and Medway Residents Encouraged to Get Flu and Covid-19 Vaccinations

Individuals in Kent and Medway who meet the eligibility criteria are being prompted to receive their flu and Covid-19 vaccinations before the Christmas period. This encouragement follows a national 70% increase in hospital admissions attributed to flu. Free vaccination is available for individuals aged over 65, pregnant women, those with specific underlying health conditions, and frontline health and social care personnel. Dr Kate Langford, chief medical officer for NHS Kent & Medway, stated: “Flu and Covid-19 spread more easily in winter when we spend more time together indoors and can cause serious illness.” She informed BBC Radio Kent that: “Every year flu is different and it can hit at a slightly different time. It has hit early this year, right on top of Christmas which is one of our busiest times of the year.” Ms Langford noted that vaccine uptake was somewhat low, particularly among younger individuals with underlying health conditions who qualify for the vaccination. Nationally, approximately 1,900 hospital beds are presently occupied by flu patients, as reported by NHS England. Dr Jack Jacobs, a general practitioner based in Hamstreet, commented: “I think uptake is low due to a combination of things, but there is definitely some vaccine fatigue, particularly from the Covid-19 days.” He added: “All the stuff we did during the pandemic, such as washing hands and ventilation, helps. Some people might still want to wear a face mask when out in potentially crowded areas.” The final date for individuals to schedule their complimentary vaccinations is 19 December.