Published on: 31 October 2025
Health experts are warning that this year’s flu season has arrived early with cases already rising fast among children and young people.
Dr Catherine Monaghan, a leading respiratory consultant and medical director for the North East and North Cumbria Integrated Care Board (ICB), says urgent action is needed to protect those most at risk.
“We are extremely worried that flu has started to circulate five weeks earlier than usual," she said.
"Flu is not just a nasty cold, it’s a very serious disease. We’re already seeing cases among young people, and we expect it to spread quickly in the coming weeks.”
The flu vaccine is available now for people aged 65 and over, pregnant women, adult care home residents, people with long-term health conditions, close contacts of those who are immunosuppressed, children aged 2–3 and school-aged children up to Year 11.
COVID-19 vaccinations are also available for over 75s, care home residents and people who are immunosuppressed.
“If you’re told by your GP you are eligible for a vaccine, it’s because you’re at higher risk of serious illness. Please book your vaccine appointment now," added Dr Monaghan.
“Every year we see too many people in hospital, and far too many deaths, that could have been prevented - the vaccine is our best defence.”
More than 950 sites are offering vaccinations across the region this year, the widest network ever for a winter vaccination campaign.
Flu, and COVID-19, vaccinations can be booked online at www.nhs.uk, on the NHS App or by calling 119 free of charge. If eligible for both vaccines, they can be given at the same time.
Parents are being reminded to return school flu consent forms for under-16s, and pregnant women can be vaccinated at their GP practice, pharmacy, or during antenatal appointments.
Football fans can even get their jab at home games this winter with free NHS vaccination clinics and health checks offered by clubs including Sunderland AFC, Spennymoor Town, Darlington FC, and Gateshead FC. See the NHS North East and North Cumbria website (Stay in the game this winter) for details of participating clubs and matchday clinics.
“Vaccinations help people stay well and reduce hospital admissions during the busy winter months, when NHS services are under the greatest pressure,” added Dr Monaghan.
“Older people and young children are more likely to become very seriously ill if they catch flu or COVID-19, so please don’t delay, get protected as soon as you can.”
To check if you’re eligible, visit www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations or speak to your GP or local pharmacist.
