Over 5 Million Under 65s with Long-Term Health Conditions Could Miss Flu Vaccine
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns that many individuals at risk may be unaware they are eligible for a flu vaccine.
Vaccination Rates Among Those with Long-Term Health Conditions
Recent data shows that fewer than a third (28.9%) of people with one or more long-term health conditions (LTHCs) have received a flu vaccine. Among 9 million people under 65 in clinical risk groups eligible for vaccination, only 40% were vaccinated during the 2024–2025 season, leaving over 5 million unprotected.
Vaccination in Older Adults
Flu vaccine uptake is higher in adults aged 65 and over, with 61.5% vaccinated so far this year and an overall 74.9% vaccinated in the previous year. However, many older adults with LTHCs remain unvaccinated.
Health Risks in Clinical Groups
For some clinical groups, the risk of influenza-related mortality is significantly greater compared to the general population.
"For some clinical groups the risk of influenza-related mortality compared with the general population is much higher."
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Author’s summary: Over 5 million under-65 individuals with long-term health conditions may miss flu vaccines due to low awareness and uptake, despite significant health risks.