Dr Oge on the importance of winter vaccinations for people on immunosuppresants

Dr Oge Ilozue is a practicing GP and Clinical Advisor for the NHS Vaccination Programme.

While pandemic restrictions and social behaviours saw flu and COVID-19 levels fall dramatically for a few years, the latest mortality figures are a stark reminder these can be deadly viruses, particularly for people who have a weakened immune system due to taking immunosuppressive drugs and may have a reduced ability to fight infections caused by flu and COVID-19.

Public Health data shows that over the past two winters at least 18,000 deaths were associated with flu, and in the same two-year winter period the estimated number of deaths associated with COVID-19 was just over 19,500.

Of real concern is the drop in the flu vaccine uptake rates last winter across all eligibility groups in England compared with the previous year and as winter approaches, we see many dangerous viruses circulating in our communities including flu, which tragically can kill thousands of people every year. Getting vaccinated ahead of winter is by far your best defence.

I have seen first-hand the effect of not being vaccinated, with families losing loved ones or spending weeks visiting them in hospital as they are seriously ill. So, it makes sense to prevent illness in the first place.

Flu and COVID-19 jab appointments are now available to book via the NHS website, the NHS App, or by calling 119 for free – making it as easy as possible for you to get vaccinated.

These vaccines have been rigorously tested, are constantly monitored and we know that the benefits of having the vaccinations far outweigh any risk. But it’s completely understandable that people who are taking immunosuppressive drugs for their psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis may have some concerns about whether or not it is safe for them to receive the vaccines.

If you do have questions or concerns, I encourage you to speak to a trusted healthcare professional. This can be your GP, pharmacist, health visitor or consultant, all of whom can provide evidence-based information.

Every year the World Health Organisation recommends which strains should be included in the flu vaccine, with the UKHSA contributing to this work. Vaccines are then developed to help fight off the types of flu viruses expected to be circulating in the coming season. As the viruses can change every year, and protection from the vaccine reduces over time, it is important those eligible get a vaccine every year.

"I encourage everyone who is eligible to get their flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible. They are without doubt the best way to protect yourself from these viruses that can cause serious harm.”