Norfolk expert warns "significant" number could die from flu - if vaccine uptake doesn't increase
According to a new survey, nearly half of those in Norwich haven't booked or had their seasonal flu jab yet
An epidemiologist in Norfolk is warning that a "significant" number of people could die from flu this winter, if vaccine uptake against the virus remains stagnant.
A survey carried out by a global vaccine provider has found that nearly half of those living in Norwich haven't booked or had their seasonal flu jab yet.
"If you caught it now, you would be more likely to die than if you caught Covid"
Professor Paul Hunter works at Norwich Medical School and the University of East Anglia.
He has this message for those who are yet to be jabbed: "We've been giving out flu vaccines out for many years now. It's effective and it will reduce your risk of getting severe disease.
"The vaccine is very targeted at those who are more likely to get more severe disease, if they caught it.
"There's still a lot 'anti-vax' sentiment around now.
"Often people don't really realise how bad flu can be. If you caught it now, you would be more likely to die than if you caught Covid.".
Who needs a flu jab?
-Those aged 65 or over
-People who have certain long-term health conditions
-Pregnant women
-Care Home residents
-Carers for an older or disabled person
-Anyone living with someone who has a weakened immune system
The survey's results:
Norwich
• 59% of Norwich feel responsible for protecting elderly/vulnerable people during flu season yet nearly half (48%) haven’t received or book their own flu vaccine so far this year.
• Over two thirds (68%) admit it would ruin Christmas if they or a family member had flu.
• Only 4% of Norwich knew that children are most likely to catch flu.
• Just 13% knew that between 11,000 and 20,000 people died from flu over the last 2 winters.
The East of England:
• 59% of East England feel responsible for protecting elderly/vulnerable people during flu season yet nearly half (45%) haven’t received or book their own flu vaccine so far this year
• 63% admit it would ruin Christmas if they or a family member had flu
• Only 5% of East England knew that children are most likely to catch flu
• Just 8% knew that between 11,000 and 20,000 people died from flu over the last 2 winters.
(Source: An online survey was conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of CSL Seqirus)
How to book a flu jab?
Those in need of a flu jab can book an appointment through the NHS app, their GP or a local pharmacy.