Local NHS bosses are urging people to come in for their vaccine if they have received an invite from their GP

NHS doctors are urging people eligible for a free flu vaccination to come forward ahead of Christmas.

Despite strong uptake so far this season, around one-in-five vulnerable people in Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Islington and Haringey boroughs has not yet taken up their offer of a winter vaccination, leaving them at higher risk of serious illness during the coldest months of the year.

New analysis from North Central London Integrated Care Board (ICB) shows over 245,000 residents are still unvaccinated against flu, from a total of 504,000 eligible.

Those eligible are either aged 65-plus or in ‘at risk’ categories such as pregnant women and those with a serious health condition.

Doctors say vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to protect against severe illness from flu and Covid-19, particularly for older people, pregnant women, and those with long-term health conditions.

Dr Jo Sauvage, a GP and chief medical officer for NHS North Central London ICB, said: “We know winter is a busy time for everyone, but it really isn’t too late to get vaccinated.

“These vaccines reduce the risk of serious illness and hospital admission, and they also help protect the people around you. With Christmas and the New Year coming up, getting vaccinated now can make a real difference.”

Anyone eligible can book online using the national booking service, the NHS App or on the phone by calling 119. There are even some walk-in appointments available at community pharmacies and GP practices with additional clinics.

Many pharmacies offer vaccinations without the need for an appointment, making it easier to fit around work, school, and family commitments.

Dr Sauvage added: “It’s a lot easier than people think. You don’t need to wait. Many people can simply walk into a local pharmacy and get vaccinated there and then. It’s one of the simplest steps you can take to stay well this winter.”

Elena-Ramona Tacu, a community pharmacist in Enfield, said: “Pharmacies are a really convenient place to get your flu jab, and many people are surprised by how quick and easy it is.

“You don’t even always need an appointment. You can often just walk in while doing your shopping or on the way home from work. Pharmacies across Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington are ready to help people get protected this winter.”

No news is bad news

Independent news outlets like ours – reporting for the community without rich backers – are under threat of closure, turning British towns into news deserts.

The audiences they serve know less, understand less, and can do less.

If our coverage has helped you understand our community a little bit better, please consider supporting us with a monthly, yearly or one-off donation.

Choose the news. Don’t lose the news.

Monthly direct debit

Annual direct debit

£5 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else, £10 per month supporters get a digital copy of each month’s paper before anyone else and a print copy posted to them each month. £50 annual supporters get a digital copy of each month's paper before anyone else. £84 annual supporters get a print copy by post and a digital copy of each month's before anyone else.