"Many of these episodes can be prevented by a simple vaccine."
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is calling on those who celebrate Diwali to get their flu, Covid-19 and RSV vaccinations, warning that winter viruses could put vulnerable people at risk as families gather to celebrate.
Although levels of flu, Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are currently low, the UKHSA expects flu cases to begin increasing during November as winter approaches.
The agency also warns that vaccines can take several days to provide maximum protection, making it important for eligible people to get vaccinated ahead of the festivities.
As temperatures drop, people typically spend more time socialising indoors and gathering in enclosed spaces, often with limited ventilation.
This creates greater opportunities for airborne respiratory viruses to spread, increasing the risk of infection among those who are more vulnerable.
People eligible for the vaccinations are considered to be at greater risk of developing serious illnesses from these viruses and requiring hospital treatment.
Getting vaccinated can reduce the likelihood of severe illness while also helping to limit transmission to family members, friends and the wider community.
A free NHS flu vaccine is available to people aged 65 and over, under-65s in clinical risk groups, care home residents and carers, close contacts of people who are immunosuppressed, frontline health and social care workers, children and pregnant women.
The Covid-19 vaccine is also available free of charge to people aged 75 and over, those who are immunosuppressed and residents in care homes for older adults.
Meanwhile, people aged 75 and over and pregnant women are eligible for an RSV vaccination.
The maternal vaccine provides protection for both the mother and her newborn baby, with antibodies passed through the placenta to help protect infants during their first few months, when they are particularly vulnerable to severe RSV illness.
Parents are also being urged to ensure their children receive the free flu vaccine ahead of Diwali. Children can receive the vaccination at school through a quick and painless nasal spray, while eligible two and three-year-olds can be vaccinated at their GP practice.
Children are particularly susceptible to flu, with thousands requiring hospital treatment every winter.
Those under the age of five have one of the highest rates of hospital admissions due to the virus compared with other age groups.
Vaccinating children not only helps protect them from serious illness but also reduces the risk of passing flu to vulnerable relatives, including babies, grandparents and people with weakened immune systems.
Children from Reception to Year 11 will be offered the vaccine at school by immunisation teams across England.
Parents are being encouraged to complete their children’s vaccination consent forms, either on paper or through digital channels, to ensure they can receive the nasal spray.
Eligible pre-school children aged two and three should be booked in for an appointment at their GP practice. Children aged six months and over with health conditions that put them at increased risk from flu should also receive a vaccine every year.
Those who cannot have the nasal spray for medical or faith reasons can request an injected flu vaccine instead.
Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, Deputy Director of Immunisation at the UK Health Security Agency, said:
“The Diwali season is a cherished time when families and friends come together to celebrate and exchange greetings.
“However, it also coincides with the start of winter when flu and other respiratory viruses are often circulating.”
“We strongly encourage members of the Hindu, Jain and Sikh communities to prioritise their health by getting vaccinated if eligible, helping them to stay winter-proof.
“Aside from protecting yourself, ensure your children are vaccinated too against flu, offered at school or at your GP for 2 and 3-year-olds. Each winter thousands of children require treatment in hospital for flu or its complications.
“Many of these episodes can be prevented by a simple vaccine. This year children can also get the nasal flu vaccine at a participating pharmacy.
“On top of helping to keep your child healthy, the vaccine also helps stop the spread of flu in the family and wider community – helping to protect those who are more vulnerable and the elderly, such as grandparents.
“So, help protect yourself and your loved ones this Diwali by checking your eligibility and adding the flu, Covid-19 or RSV vaccine to your Diwali preparation checklist.”
Eligible people can book vaccination appointments or attend walk-in sessions at participating pharmacies, GP practices and community clinic drop-in centres across England.
Appointments can be arranged through the NHS App, by contacting a local GP practice, online at www.nhs.uk/bookflu or www.nhs.uk/bookcovid, or by calling 119.
People can also use the NHS walk-in finder to locate their nearest drop-in service.
