Those eligible for the free flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster jab in the South West are being urged to book their appointments as soon as possible.

A new film campaign featuring TV medics Dr Amir Khan, Dr Dawn Harper and Dr Karan Ranj explains why it is more important than ever for people to get their vaccines as soon as possible, as both viruses have the potential to cause serious illness and hospitalisation.

A survey carried out by the UK’s Health and Safety Authority suggests that many adults in England are severely underestimating the combined threat of COVID-19 and flu this winter.

“There could be a significant flu surge this winter coinciding with continuing or rising COVID-19 cases,” says the HSA.

“This is due to the colder weather which favours transmission, darker nights which mean increased social contact indoors where it is less well ventilated, and an expected lower immunity to flu due to lower levels in circulation last winter.”

A recent survey seeking views from 3,000 participants found that nearly one third (32%) were unaware that flu and COVID-19 can circulate at the same time, over a quarter (26%) did not know that flu can be fatal and over half (55%) underestimated the number of people who die from flu in an average year in England (approximately 11,000).

Dr Julie Yates, Screening and Immunisation Lead for the South West said:

“Due to the lifting of COVID restrictions, and with more people mixing indoors as we move towards winter, we are likely to face a rise in flu cases this winter compared to the low levels we had last year.

"Both flu and COVID-19 will be circulating together and both viruses can cause serious illness and hospitalisation.

"The best protection we have against both flu and COVID-19 is to get vaccinated when called by the NHS."

The research showed some misunderstanding of flu in particular, with around one in ten (9%) saying they thought the COVID-19 vaccination would protect them against flu. One in five (20%) did not know or were unsure that flu is spread by coughs and sneezes and can live on hands and surfaces – similar to COVID-19.

Around 30 million people are eligible for a COVID-19 booster vaccine.

And this year, the flu vaccine programme is being expanded again and will be offered to over 35 million eligible people.

To check your eligibility for the flu vaccine and COVID-19 booster vaccine or to find a service visit http://www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations"; TARGET="_blank">http://www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations

Eligible people can book an appointment for their flu jab at either their GP practice or their local pharmacy. Those who are pregnant can ask for their free flu jab at their local maternity service.