Flu jab delay until New Year

SOME people eligible for a flu jab will not be able to get it until January, the Government has admitted.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock boasted about rolling out the biggest flu vaccination programme “in history” but doubts remained over when supplies would be available.

Eligibility has been extended to half the population as getting flu at the same time as Covid- 19 nearly doubles the risk of death.

It has been reported that GPs are rationing flu vaccines and making people between the ages of 50 and 64 wait until supplies are more robust. For the first time th this year Year 7 secondary scho school pupils and adults aged 50 to 65 can get the free jab. H However, many will not get a le letter inviting them to be v vaccinated before the flu se season is well under way. Announcing yesterday how GP GPs can access vaccine supp supplies, the Government said: “The flu vaccination programme will run throughout the winter months and into January so anyone eligible for a vaccine will be able to receive one.

“The flu season tends to start in December, but vaccination at any point in the season is valuable protection.”

Surgeries and pharmacists traditionally start to offer the jab in late September or early October. It takes up to 14 days for the vaccine to take effect so charity Age UK advises that it is “better to have it as early as possible”.

Deputy Chief Medical Officer Jonathan Van- Tam said: “If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccine, you will be contacted by the NHS. Please take advantage of this important protection.”