Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what steps his Department is taking to protect vulnerable residents from flu during winter months in Surrey Heath constituency.

Vaccination is our best defence against flu viruses. The aim of the vaccination programme is to provide direct protection to those at higher risk of flu associated morbidity and mortality, including older people, pregnant women, and those in clinical risk groups, and is based on the advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). Flu vaccines are free to those at greatest risk, with vaccination available via general practices, community pharmacies, maternity services, and in schools and other community clinics, including in the Surrey Health constituency. The NHS National Booking System is open for eligible individuals to book their winter flu vaccine.

The Department is working with the UK Health Security Agency and NHS England to encourage flu vaccine uptake via the national Stay Winter Strong campaign. This uses both mainstream and specialist, highly targeted media and stakeholder channels to engage priority cohorts. Campaign messaging is supported by comprehensive information materials and guidance, ensuring healthcare professions and the public are empowered to guide patients, or make an informed choice.