Over 5 Million Under 65s with Long-Term Illness May Miss Flu Vaccine
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has expressed concern that many people with chronic health conditions might not realize they qualify for a free flu vaccination.
Recent data indicate that only 28.9% of individuals with one or more long-term health conditions have received the vaccine. Among the 9 million people under 65 in clinical risk groups who are eligible, just 40% were vaccinated during the 2024–2025 season, leaving more than 5 million at risk and unprotected.
In contrast, vaccine uptake is higher among older adults. So far this year, 61.5% of people aged 65 and over have been vaccinated, compared to 74.9% last year. Nevertheless, a significant number of older individuals with chronic illnesses still remain without protection.
“For some clinical groups, the risk of influenza-related mortality compared with the general population is significantly higher.”
Author’s Summary
An estimated five million people under 65 with chronic health issues in the UK may miss the flu vaccine despite eligibility, putting them at increased risk of severe illness.