Devon’s residents urged to get vaccinated as flu and Covid cases rise in hospitals

Cases of flu and Covid are already on the rise in Devon's hospitals, health leaders have said. | Submitted

placeholder image — Cases of flu and Covid are already on the rise in Devon's hospitals, health leaders have said. | Submitted

Cases of flu and Covid-19 are already on the rise in Devon’s hospitals, health leaders have said

People across Devon are being urged to have their cold and flu vaccinations as health leaders say virus cases are already rising in the region’s hospitals.

They say having the vaccination if you are eligible can help reduce the spread of infection and protect those most vulnerable to serious illness.

Alongside vaccination advice, people are being reminded again to stay at home when feeling unwell and not to visit hospitals or care settings.

Flu vaccines are free on the NHS for those: aged over 65 or will be 65 by March 31, those with certain long-term health conditions, live in a care home or are a carer for an older or disabled person, are pregnant, live with someone who has a weakened immune system, aged 16 and above and experiencing homelessness as well as living in hostels, are a front line health or social care worker.

Children can also get a free flu vaccine, usually given as a quick nasal spray. This includes: children aged two or three on August 31, 2026, through their GP practice; school-aged children from reception to Year 11, through the school vaccination programme; children aged six months to 17 years with certain long-term health conditions. Some pharmacies can now also vaccinate children aged two and over with long-term health conditions.

The Covid vaccine is available free for adults aged 75 and over, residents of care homes for older adults and anyone aged six months and above with a weakened immune system.

Director of Public Health, Steve Brown said: “Despite the weather being unseasonably warm outside we are already seeing flu and other winter viruses begin to circulate more widely in our communities.

“While many people will experience a self-limiting illness that can be managed at home, for some people, particularly older adults, young children, pregnant women and those living with long-term health conditions, these infections can lead to serious illness and hospitalisation.

“The good news is that there are simple and effective steps we can all take to protect ourselves and others. If you're eligible for a flu or Covid-19 vaccination, please come forward and get vaccinated. If you're unwell, stay at home where possible and avoid contact with people who may be at greater risk.

“Small actions such as washing your hands regularly, covering coughs and sneezes and keeping rooms well-ventilated can make a real difference. Together, these measures help reduce the spread of infection and protect the people in our communities who are most vulnerable.”

The public is being asked not to visit friends or relatives in hospital or care settings if they feel unwell, helping to protect patients and care home residents who may be particularly vulnerable to infection.

If you have had diarrhoea or vomiting, please wait until you have been free of symptoms for at least 48 hours before visiting anyone in hospital or a care home.

Mel Burden is consultant nurse and joint director of infection prevention and control, She said: “Every winter we see the impact that flu and other viruses can have in our hospitals. Patients who are older, frail, immunocompromised or living with long-term health conditions are particularly vulnerable to becoming seriously unwell from respiratory infections.

“Outbreaks of respiratory infections on our wards can mean closing beds, postponing planned operations and patients, staff and visitors becoming unwell themselves, at the time of year when we need every bed and every member of staff the most. That's also why we're encouraging all our own staff to get their flu vaccine and Covid vaccine if eligible.

“We would ask anyone who is feeling unwell to think carefully before visiting hospitals or care settings, and to follow any infection prevention advice provided. Getting vaccinated and taking sensible precautions when unwell are among the best ways to protect patients, loved ones and NHS colleagues.”