Over 5 million under 65s with a long-term health condition could miss out flu vaccine

Over 5 Million Under 65s with Long-Term Health Conditions Could Miss Flu Vaccine

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) warns that many eligible individuals may be unaware they qualify for a flu vaccine. Despite 9 million people under 65 in clinical risk groups being eligible, only 40% were vaccinated in 2024–25. This leaves over 5 million at risk and unprotected.

Vaccination Rates Among Different Age Groups

Among people with one or more long-term health conditions (LTHCs), less than a third (28.9%) have had a flu vaccine.
Vaccination uptake is higher among older adults aged 65 and over, with 61.5% vaccinated so far this year and 74.9% overall last year.
Despite this, many over 65s with LTHCs remain unvaccinated.

Health Risks for Clinical Groups

For certain clinical groups, the risk of death related to influenza is significantly greater than for the general population.

“For some clinical groups the risk of influenza-related mortality compared with the general population is much higher.”(1)

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Author's summary: Despite eligibility, millions with long-term health conditions, especially under 65, miss flu vaccination, leaving them vulnerable to serious influenza risks.

GOV.UK — 2025-11-07

Over 5 Million Under 65s with Long-Term Health Conditions Could Miss Flu Vaccine

Vaccination Rates Among Different Age Groups

Health Risks for Clinical Groups

Cookies and Site Usage

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