Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire urges older people to have Flu Jab

For those eligible, getting a flu vaccine is one of the most important things an older person can do to protect their health. Older people, and those with particular health conditions, are most at risk from the serious impacts of flu so it is vital that older people protect themselves as soon as they can.

Everyone aged 65 and over will be offered a flu jab this autumn to increase protection. Unpaid carers, residents of older adult care homes, health and social care staff, and household contacts of people with weakened immune system are also eligible for flu vaccinations. In addition, those aged under 65 with particular health conditions are also eligible.

In 2023 alone, it was estimated there were around 7,791 excess deaths attributed to flu and pneumonia in England*.

Last winter in Coventry and Warwickshire 78.1% of people aged 65 and over had the flu vaccination, just reaching the WHO recommended target of 75%.

Michael Garrett, Chief Executive for Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire: “Our advice to older people is to please take up the offer of the flu jab when it comes your way. Millions of eligible older people took the opportunity of having the flu vaccination last year, so we are urging everyone to do the same this autumn.”