People urged to book flu jabs as NHS bookings open

People who are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine are being encouraged to book appointments as this year's autumn vaccination programme begins.

The flu vaccine is available for free to people at higher risk of getting seriously ill, or who live with or care for those who are vulnerable.

Most eligible people can get the flu vaccine from Thursday, while jabs have already opened to some groups.

Professor Anjan Ghosh, director of health at Kent County Council (KCC), said: "With the recent heatwaves still a fresh memory, getting ready for winter is probably the last thing on people's minds."

He said the vaccine took a few minutes and offered months of protection.

"The NHS treated record numbers this summer and wants to do all it can to reduce demand for its services in the colder months to come," he added.

The free jab is available to a range of groups, including people aged 65 and over, carers, residents in care homes and frontline health and social care workers.

Dr Kate Langford, chief medical officer for NHS Kent and Medway said it was "one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself and your loved ones".

KCC said that nearly 19 million people received their flu jab in England last winter and about 104,000 hospitalisations were estimated to have been avoided as a result.

The makeup of the flu virus is constantly changing, and eligible people need a new flu vaccine every year, KCC added.

People can book appointments via the NHS App or by calling 119.

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