UKHSA urges these 10 groups of people to get immediate vaccine to reduce death risk

The UK Health Security Agency said getting the flu jab was "vital" as it opened online and telephone booking from Friday, with the first appointments available from October 3

Brits are being urged to take up a crucial vaccine this autumn, as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) details 10 groups of people who should have the shot that they say is "vital" to dodge hospital stays and save lives.

The race is on to get vaccinated with online and phone bookings now live, and slots opening from October 3. While GPs will reach out to most who qualify, those who don't hear should ring up their surgery as soon as possible.

Without the jab, the UKHSA warns that the vulnerable could develop "serious" lung and airway infections. The UKHSA said in a statement: "As we approach winter, it's time for people at risk to be booked in for their free flu jab. If you're eligible, you need to know why it matters that you take up the offer."

The UKHSA is sending out the message that flu is not just a bad cold - for the at-risk crowd, it can increase the chances of nasty lung and airway infections like bronchitis and pneumonia, or worsen existing health woes.

The UKHSA added: "Flu is far more than just a bad cold. For those susceptible, it can increase the risk of developing serious lung and airway infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse. Flu spreads easily and can lead to hospitalisation - in some cases, even death. The flu virus is constantly evolving, which is why getting vaccinated each year is vital."

This year, there's a list of 10 groups who are in line for the jab, reports Wales Online..

The 10 groups who should get vaccine according to UKHSA

• Everyone aged 65 years and over
• Individuals under 65 with certain medical conditions, including children and babies over six months of age
• All pregnant women
• All children aged two and three years (provided they were aged two or three on 31 August 2024)
• All primary school children
• Some secondary school children (Years 7 to 11)
• Care home residents
• Carers
• Those living with people who are immunocompromised
• Frontline health and social care workers.

The NHS website offers detailed information on who's eligible for a free jab, but if you're in doubt, it's best to check with your GP, practice nurse, or local pharmacist. This advice comes as the UKHSA reveals that excess deaths in England linked to flu were higher in 2022/23 at 14,500 compared to the pre-pandemic five-year average of 13,500.

This marks the highest toll since the 2017/18 season, which saw 22,500 flu-related excess deaths.

Wondering how and when to get your flu jab?

If you're entitled to a flu shot, the NHS will inform you about booking your slot. If you haven't heard anything but believe you qualify, get in touch with your GP surgery.

Booking online or by phone kicks off on September 23, with slots opening up for eligible adults from October 3. Pregnant women can get vaccinated right away just speak to your GP, midwife, or pharmacist.

According to the UKHSA: "The best time to get your flu jab is in the autumn or early winter, before flu starts circulating widely. However, if you miss this window, it's still beneficial to get vaccinated later in the season."

They also stressed: "As we enter the 2024 flu season, taking proactive steps to protect our health has never been more important. As well as providing individual protection, flu vaccination will help reduce hospitalisations and relieve some of the burden on the NHS this winter."

For more information or to schedule your appointment, head over to the dedicated section of the NHS website.