Local health and care leaders urge eligible residents to get their flu jab

Health and social care organisations across the area are united in encouraging residents to take simple but effective steps to stay well and to help their NHS support those who need it most.

Leaders from Cheshire East Council, Mid Cheshire NHS Trust, East Cheshire NHS Trust, Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, and the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside Integrated Care Board are calling on residents most at risk from flu to come forward for their seasonal vaccination. 

The appeal is primarily aimed at:

• Pregnant women
• People aged under 65 with long-term or chronic health conditions
• Everyone aged 65 years and over
• Parents and carers of children who are eligible for the flu vaccine.

With winter bringing increased pressure on A&E departments, GP practices and other health and social care services, vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to reduce serious illness and protect NHS capacity.

Flu can be especially dangerous for people with underlying conditions such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease, neurological conditions, and weakened immune systems. Vaccination dramatically reduces the risk of severe symptoms, hospitalisation, and complications.

Children are also being encouraged to get the vaccine – typically a quick and painless nasal spray for most age groups, to help limit the spread of the virus within families, schools, and the wider community.

Professor Rowan Pritchard Jones, medical director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:

“The increase in flu cases and other seasonal viruses creates additional demand during an already very challenging winter period.  While the NHS anticipate these pressures and plan extensively to manage this demand, it’s important that those eligible have their winter vaccines to prevent them from developing serious illnesses and ending up in hospital during the busy winter months.

“Having your winter vaccines will help to ease the workload on hospitals and the dedicated NHS staff who work tirelessly to deliver safe, effective care for those who need it most during these challenging months.”

Professor Rod Thomson, director of population health at Cheshire East Council, said:

“Flu is not just a heavy cold – it can be extremely serious for those who are at higher risk. By getting vaccinated, you’re protecting yourself, your loved ones and easing the pressure on our local NHS services at a time of year when demand is highest.

“The vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available. We urge everyone who is eligible to book their appointment as soon as possible.”

Eligible adults can book their flu jab through their local GP practice, participating pharmacies or via the NHS App (where available). Parents of eligible children will be contacted through their child’s school or can arrange vaccination through their GP if the school session is missed.

Local walk-in sessions may also be available through the mobile: 

Living Well Service provided by the Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust.

For more information on flu and to find out if you are eligible for a free vaccine:

flu page on the NHS website