Its seems that flu is circulating earlier than usual this year, with currently the main strain being known to cause more severe illness in older adults, making vaccination especially important for those at higher risk.
(note 2:data from previous seasons is aligned by day) – Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/national-flu-and-covid-19-surveillance-reports-2025-to-2026-season/national-flu-and-covid-19-surveillance-report-6-november-2025-week-45
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has advised that flu activity is already above expected levels for the time of year. Hospital admissions and outbreaks are increasing. Early vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation and complications from flu.
The vaccine continues to provide strong protection against severe disease and also protects against other flu types expected to circulate this winter.
At School Lane we are continuing to invite all eligible patients for their free flu vaccine. SMS invitations are being sent to those who are eligible, and we encourage everyone who receives a message to book an appointment as soon as possible.
If you are visiting the surgery for another reason, we may ask if you would like your flu vaccine during your appointment. If you haven’t been invited but believe you may be eligible, please speak with a member of staff or the clinical who can check your eligibility and arrange your vaccination there and then!
Getting vaccinated not only protects you but also helps protect vulnerable people in your community. With flu spreading earlier than usual, now is the time to act & it is never too late to have the vaccine. On average it can take around 14 days for the body to fully develop a strong response to help fight off the virus. Whilst no vaccine is 100% effective, by having the vaccine you give yourself the best possible protection and if you are unlucky enough to have catch flu after having the vaccine, then the symptoms are usually much less severe, and recovery time may be shorter.
Contact the surgery today to book your flu vaccine and help keep yourself and others safe this winter.