People aged over 50 in Andover will be able to get their free flu vaccination from December 1, through into the new year, it has been confirmed.

As part of the expanded flu vaccination programme, this year is the first that people aged 50 to 64 are also eligible for the free flu vaccination.

It comes as the uptake for this year’s campaign has seen thousands of people from across the county coming forward to get their flu jab.

The latest figures show that, across the North Hampshire area, just under three-quarters of over-65s have already had their flu vaccination, and just over half of two to three-year-olds have had the vaccine.

In the West Hampshire area the figures are even higher, with more than three-quarters of over-65s already vaccinated, and nearly two-thirds of two to three-year-olds.

This already represents an improvement on uptake rates, compared to last year.

Dr Nicola Decker, GP and clinical chair of NHS North Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group, said: “This winter is like no other for us and the NHS is committed to protecting as many people as possible from the effects of flu.

“Our flu programme is well underway in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight and it is good news that we have already vaccinated more people this year compared to last year. We will of course continue to vaccinate people in at-risks groups, and it’s great we are now able to offer it to more people in the community.

“Getting the flu jab not only protects you from the more severe effects, but reduces the risk of spreading it to those who are more vulnerable.”

Individuals aged 50 to 64 will be able to get a vaccine from their GP or pharmacy.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “This winter is like no other, and we have to worry about the twin threats of flu and Covid-19.

“Covid means getting a flu jab is more important than ever this year. So we are delivering the largest ever flu vaccination programme.”

England’s deputy chief medical officer Professor Jonathan Van-Tam added: “Influenza vaccination is a critical tool this and every winter to prevent severe illnesses and potential hospitalisations for thousands of people.

“I urge all those who are eligible for the flu vaccine, including the new group of 50 to 64-year-olds, to book their appointments as soon as they can.”