Pharmacies and medical offices now fully stocked with influenza vaccine | New

Deliveries began in September and NHS England today confirmed that all the vaccines ordered – a record 8.5 million doses – had been shipped.

"It's the largest flu vaccination program we've ever undertaken"

Professor Jane Cummings

This week, health officials are trying to encourage people aged 65 or older to accept the offer.

Other "risk groups" eligible for free vaccination include pregnant women, people with chronic diseases and children.

Health and social services staff may also receive the vaccine free of charge.

Professor Jane Cummings, Chief Nurse for England, said leaders wanted to increase the current participation rate of 45.2% among people aged 65 or older.

"This is the largest flu vaccination program we have ever undertaken, giving more people than ever the greatest opportunity to help protect themselves," she said.

"This year, three types of vaccines are being used, including the trivalent adjuvanted flu vaccine, or ACTIV, which is expected to provide better protection for those 65 years of age and older.

"AITV shipments have been ongoing since September and, with all vaccines currently being shipped to general practitioners and pharmacies, we urge those who have not yet received their flu shots to receive it the most." quickly possible.

"The flu can kill and the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones"

Professor Dame Sally Davies

Seqirus, the only provider of the new, more effective vaccine for people over 65, has progressively organized its deliveries to meet global demand.

It has been reported that some older people were denied jab on demand because their medical office or pharmacy had not yet received their order.

The NHS England leaders today assured that there were enough vaccines in stock for everyone to be protected before the winter.

Professor Cummings pointed out that it was "certainly not too late" to get vaccinated.

Professor Dame Sally Davies, Chief Medical Officer for England, also encouraged all those at increased risk to be vaccinated.

She said: "The flu can kill and the vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones."

Professor Paul Cosford, director of Public Health England, said that in addition to the vaccine, the best way to prevent the spread of the flu was to practice good hand hygiene.

"The flu can be extremely serious and can kill the most vulnerable," added Professor Cosford.