A RECORD number of over-65s received their flu jab in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, according to the latest figures.

Public Health England said uptake across the country – also a record – was likely a result of the coronavirus pandemic and the lack of a Covid-19 vaccine until December.

The Royal College of GPs praised the “incredible” efforts of healthcare workers for the achievement, but has called for details on how the flu and Covid vaccine booster programmes will be rolled out together this year.

PHE figures show that 78,302 patients aged 65 and over received a flu vaccine in the conurbation between September 2020 and February – 78.5 per cent of all those registered with GPs in the area.

This was up from 71 per cent the year before, and the highest proportion since records began in 2013-14.

It was also above the 75 per cent target recommended by the World Health Organisation.

Across England, uptake among patients aged 65 and over soared to a record 80.9 per cent this winter, up from 72.4 per cent in 2019-20.

The Nuffield Trust said the NHS will want to build on this momentum ahead of what could be a hard winter.

Dr Sarah Scobie, deputy director of research at the think tank, said: “Outbreaks of flu can put significant pressure on hospitals and emergency services, particularly over the winter months.

“This winter will be even more difficult with staff working through a significant backlog of care while remaining alert to any flare-up of hospitalisations due to Covid-19.

“Given any flu outbreak would likely be very challenging, having those at most risk of serious cases of flu and Covid-19 vaccinated against both is critical.”

PHE figures also show that 52.9 per cent of clinically “at risk” people in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole had a flu jab between September and February – below the target of at least 55 per cent.

The group includes those aged between six months and 64 years old with serious diseases, the severely obese and people with learning disabilities who are at greater risk of developing serious complications if they catch flu.