More than 10 million Covid and flu vaccinations have been administered as the NHS battles to prevent a surge of winter viruses this winter. The total includes more than 5.7 million jabs given last week alone.
But with 11 million invitations issued so far in England, health chiefs are concerned about a “missing million” who are yet to boost their immunity.
The UK Health Security Agency’s surveillance data shows that hospitalisations for Covid are starting to rise.
Julie Yates, the agency’s deputy director of immunisation programmes, said: “It’s been a good start to this year’s winter vaccination programmes, which means many millions are already protected.
“But every year many of those at greater risk of getting seriously ill from winter viruses do not get their vaccines, with many thousands ending up in hospital and far too many tragically dying.
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“Some of these ‘missing million’ may not realise they are more vulnerable, but if you are invited for a flu, Covid-19 or RSV jab then it is because you are at greater risk.”
The respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine is being offered to pregnant women and older adults for the first time this year in a bit to prevent a “tripledemic”.
RSV accounts for around 30,000 hospitalisations in children aged under five each year in the UK, and causes up to 30 infant deaths.
It is also responsible for around 9,000 hospital admissions in those aged over 75 annually.
Health officials hope that the launch of the routine vaccination programme will prevent thousands of admissions and ease the burden on the embattled NHS.
Steve Russell, NHS national director for vaccinations and screening, said: “We are seeing a rise of flu and Covid cases and hospitalisations, on top of a seasonal rise in RSV, which are adding to the growing risk of a tripledemic this winter as pressures on NHS services are increased.
“The threat of these viruses is real and the best defence against these dangerous illnesses is vaccination.
“So it is crucial that anyone eligible comes forward for their vaccine appointment when they can to protect themselves and those around them. It could keep you out of hospital this winter.”
The flu jab programme launched on September 1, followed by the Covid programme on October 3.
Convenient vaccination clinics have opened in locations such as supermarket car parks, and teams are visiting care homes and schools.