More than 7,000 people died from flu in England last year
18:27, 31 Oct 2025Updated 18:27, 31 Oct 2025
Experts are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible(Image: Westend61 via Getty Images)
Health officials have issued an urgent warning to people in Liverpool after national data revealed that this year’s flu season has started earlier than usual, with a sharp rise in cases, particularly among children. Figures released today by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) show flu activity is already increasing across the country, with further rises expected as the weather turns colder.
Experts are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, warning that flu can cause serious illness – especially for older people, those with long-term health conditions, and pregnant women.
More than 7,000 people died from flu in England last year, and the virus spreads more easily in winter when people spend more time indoors.
Cllr Harry Doyle, cabinet member for public health, said: “Flu vaccines are free to those at greatest risk and teams across the city are working hard to make it as quick and easy as possible to get them via local GP practices, pharmacies, in schools and other community clinics.
“Please do book an appointment today – it could keep you out of hospital this winter.”
Professor Matt Ashton Director of Public Health for Liverpool, said: “Vaccination is still our best defence against flu and can be lifesaving.
“If you’re eligible it is because you are at greater risk of getting seriously ill and ending up in hospital.
“I urge those aged 65 and over, mums-to-be, parents of young children and teens, and others who are eligible to come forward or book appointments for their flu jabs as soon possible, to help protect themselves and loved ones.”
Sabrina Fogg, midwife at Liverpool Women’s Hospital, said: “We recommend pregnant women get vaccinated against flu, whooping cough and RSV. These vaccines have been proven to be safe for mothers and babies and protect them from serious illness.
“The flu jab is available for women at any stage of their pregnancy. Please speak to your midwife or email Liverpool Women’s Hospital at vaccines@lwh.nhs.uk to arrange a vaccination at a day and time that works for you.”
Who is eligible?
Those aged 65 and over, those living with a long-term condition, pregnant women, carers and frontline health and social care workers.
Children are also eligible for a free flu vaccine. For most children the vaccine is a nasal spray, not an injection. It is quick and painless.
Pregnant women are eligible for the seasonal flu vaccine if they are pregnant at any time in the flu season, as well as whooping cough, and RSV vaccines at certain times during their pregnancy.
Pregnant women can speak to their GP or midwife for more information.
How to get protected
Primary and secondary school-aged children can have their flu vaccine at school. In Liverpool this includes two and three year-olds in school nursery classes.
Two and three year-olds can also get a flu vaccine at their GP surgery.
Some pharmacies in Liverpool are offering flu vaccines to two and three year-olds Find a pharmacy that offers free flu vaccination at https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/find-a-pharmacy-that-offers-free-flu-vaccination/.
You can contact your GP practice to book a flu vaccine, or you can book an appointment at a pharmacy through the national booking service https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/, the NHS app or by calling 119. Some pharmacies also offer walk-in vaccinations.
The Living Well bus offers all vaccinations including flu at various sites around Liverpool. You can find out where and drop in at https://www.cwp.nhs.uk/livingwellservice.
Covid
This year, Covid vaccinations are also available to adults aged 75 and over, older adults living in care homes, and people who are immunosuppressed.
Some GPs and pharmacies offer Covid vaccines or you can book an appointment online through the national booking service on the NHS website at www.nhs.uk.
