Vaccination: Younger at risk people urged to get flu jab

So far, those younger than 65 in "clinical risk" groups have been slow to come forward

Younger people at greater risk of winter illnesses are being urged to have a Covid and flu jab.

The latest data suggests steady uptake amongst the 65 and overs, but younger people in "clinical risk" groups have been slow to come forward.

Wales' Chief Medical Officer says vaccination is also the best way to prevent the NHS from being "overwhelmed" this winter

Health boards are also urging more of their own staff to take up the offer.

Free Covid-19 and flu vaccines are available to people who are over 65 and younger people with clinical vulnerabilities as well as staff working in health and social care.

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So far this autumn 59.9% of people aged 65 plus have received a flu vaccine compared to 26.6% of people aged between six months and 64 years who are in clinical risk groups.

Meanwhile, analysis by BBC Wales suggests, in terms of uptake of the Covid booster, 51% of people aged 65 plus have received the Covid jab compared to 12% of younger people in clinical risk groups.

These groups include people with chronic lung, heart, kidney and liver disease as well as people with weakened immune systems.

There is also some concern of a relatively slow uptake of vaccines amongst health and care staff although 81% of care home residents have received their Covid boosters.

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Frank Atherton, said: "Vaccination is the safest and most effective way of protecting those who are particularly susceptible to respiratory viruses or at risk of being hospitalised.

"This is why I want to encourage everyone who is eligible for a free Covid-19 and flu vaccine to take up the offer.

It is hoped pop-up clinics in village halls and rugby clubs will encourage more to get a jab

"Getting vaccinated is the best action everyone can take to protect themselves and help prevent our health service becoming overwhelmed this winter."

He thanked those who'd come forward so far and encouraged those who hadn't to "get protected before the peak of the flu season".

One concern is that younger people who might be at greater risk or health and care staff may be finding it more difficult to fit in their vaccine appointments around work and other commitments.

There is also a worry they may be experiencing "vaccine fatigue" or are less concerned about the risks than they were during the pandemic.

To try to address this Hywel Dda health board, for example, is holding a number of pop-up clinics in places like village halls and rugby clubs in an effort to bring vaccines closer to people's homes.

"There's definitely a feeling of apathy out there," said Lynne Edwards - senior nurse for immunisations and vaccinations.

"So we're trying to bring vaccination closer to the community, so it'll allow people better accessibility."

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