NHS Issues Urgent ‘Flu Jab SOS’ as Experts Warn of the UK’s Worst Flu Season in Decades

Public urged to get vaccinated as cases rise sharply and flu deaths expected to surge

Health experts are warning that Flu Season 2025 could be the worst in decades, with the UK facing an early and aggressive outbreak that threatens to overwhelm hospitals this winter. Following Australia’s record-breaking flu epidemic, health authorities say Britain must act fast to avoid a similar crisis.

New figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveal that flu deaths in England more than doubled last winter, rising from 3,555 to 7,757. The number of children who died with flu also increased sharply, from 34 to 53. With the flu season already starting unusually early in October, hospital admissions are climbing — particularly among children aged five to 14.

Dr Suzanna McDonald, national lead for influenza at the UKHSA, warned:

“Flu has hit early this year and will only continue to spread. For those more vulnerable, it can be deadly. If you’re eligible for a vaccine, don’t delay — protect yourself and your loved ones now.”

NHS England has launched an urgent “Flu Jab SOS” campaign, announcing more than 2.4 million vaccination appointments available next week — enough to cover the entire populations of Greater Manchester or Botswana.

Chief Nursing Officer for England Duncan Burton urged everyone eligible to take up the offer:

“With just weeks left to ensure full protection, it’s vital that people get their flu vaccine. The jab is safe, effective and could save your life this winter.”

At St George’s, Epsom and St Helier Hospitals, Chief Nursing Officer Elaine Clancy said her teams are preparing for a severe season:

“We see people die from flu every year, and sadly thousands more could this winter. Please book your jab now — it takes up to two weeks to work.”

Flu vaccines are free on the NHS for over-65s, under-65s in clinical risk groups, pregnant women, carers, care-home residents, frontline NHS and social care staff, and children.

Public Health Minister Ashley Dalton added:

“Vaccination is our strongest defence. With flu cases already triple what they were this time last year, I urge everyone eligible to take up one of the 2.4 million appointments available next week.”