It comes after a big jump in the number of people deemed to be at greatest risk from winter illnesses such as flu

NHS doctors and healthcare professionals in North London are promoting a ‘winter wellness’ campaign ahead of the colder weather arriving.

North Central London Integrated Care Board (ICB) is encouraging people in Enfield to protect themselves and their loved ones against seasonal illnesses, as new figures reveal significant increases in the numbers of unvaccinated people, and of hospital admissions for flu.

The latest data show a 37% increase in the number of people at greatest risk, including those with long-term health conditions, over 65s, and people who are unvaccinated.

Meanwhile there was a 48% increase in flu admissions via hospital emergency departments, highlighting how more people are becoming seriously unwell with flu.

Health leaders warn that a similar pattern would leave thousands of vulnerable residents at greater risk of serious illness and hospitalisation this winter.

The local NHS, including hospital trusts, GPs and community pharmacies, as well as local councils and voluntary sector partners across Barnet, Camden, Enfield, Haringey and Islington, are working together to deliver the winter wellness campaign.

Vaccination clinics will be promoted and the campaign will provide advice on staying well this winter and signpost people to the most appropriate NHS service if they become unwell.

It promotes key messages, particularly encouraging people to get vaccinated, and to be aware of the best local health care options – such as community pharmacists, NHS 111, GPs or urgent care centres – to get the care they need this winter.

Dr Gloria Okafor-Ezejofor, from Alma Healthcare Centre in Ponders End, says the campaign also aims to reach parents. “There was a big increase in the numbers of children and young people who were brought to hospital emergency departments last year, particularly with flu symptoms,” she explains.

“Nearly a quarter of all visits were by children and young people. Many of those didn’t require treatment in hospital but care at home with the right medical advice.

“We want parents to feel confident and comfortable about their local options – whether that’s their GP evening or weekend appointments, visiting their local pharmacy or using NHS 111.”

National charities are adding their voices to the local push.

One of the groups with the lowest flu vaccine uptake (just 20%) is those adults aged under 50 with heart disease. Ruth Goss, senior cardiac nurse at British Heart Foundation (BHF), says: “The flu causes stress to your body which can affect your blood pressure, heart rate and how your heart functions. If you live with cardiovascular disease, you’re more at risk of getting seriously ill with the flu.

“Getting a flu jab takes only five minutes and it can protect you from potentially serious health complications. If you have questions or concerns about having the flu jab, speak to your doctor or nurse.”

Emma Rubach, head of health advice at Asthma + Lung UK, adds: “The drop in the number of people who are getting the flu vaccine, despite being eligible for it, is worrying. Respiratory illness is the leading cause of hospital admissions in winter.

“For people living with a lung condition, exposure to flu and other respiratory infections can lead to life-threatening asthma attacks and exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.”

For more information on vaccination eligibility and local services:
Visit London Winter Wellness

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