VULNERABLE people in Worcestershire are being urged to get their flu vaccinations to fight off the onslaught of seasonal viruses.

Fewer people in high risk groups are getting vaccinated compared to last year warn the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

Flu vaccination figures for vulnerable people in the West Midlands, which includes Worcestershire, have dropped by just over 6 per cent in the last year.

Only 41 per cent of people under 65 who are at risk and eligible to have the vaccine had the jab last year, compared to 47.5 per cent the year before.

In the West Midlands the UKHSA flu uptake figures in 2023/24:

41.4 per cent of people with a long-term health condition,

32.1 per cent of pregnant women,

44.3 per cent of 2 and 3 year olds, and

78.8 per cent of those aged over 65 received the flu vaccine.

Evidence shows the significant impact of last year’s flu vaccine in England, with a 30 per cent reduction in the number of those aged 65 and over being hospitalised and a 74 per cent reduction in those between 2 and 17 years of age.

To help reduce the impact of winter viruses on those most at risk, as well as ease NHS winter pressures, the UKHSA - with Department for Health and Social Care and NHS England – is set to launch a scaled-up Get Winter Strong campaign on the 7 October.

Paul Fisher, UKHSA West Midlands consultant in health protection said: “Flu is a nasty infection and tragically thousands of people lose their lives to the disease every year.

"It is really worrying therefore to see some of our vaccination rates dropping.

"The flu vaccine can prevent you getting flu or becoming seriously ill with flu. If you have existing health conditions and are eligible, do think carefully about having the vaccine and join the - it could be a life saver.”

Eligible people in England can now book their flu and COVID-19 vaccines through the NHS, with appointments starting from Thursday, October 3. For their RSV jab, pregnant women and older adults should speak to their maternity service or GP practice to arrange.