THE number of patients testing positive for flu in North Wales hospitals has increased in recent weeks.

Public Health Wales has called the rise as “concerning”; In December, Public Health Wales published data showing recorded flu cases more than doubled over a period of three weeks.

All adults eligible for a free flu vaccine can now drop in to one of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board's (BCUHB) community vaccination clinics without an appointment for their jab. 

The best way to protect against flu

Flu is now circulating in North Wales, alongside Covid-19 and other winter viruses. 
The best way to protect against flu is to get the annual flu vaccine. The vaccine can stop you getting flu, lessen the severity of symptoms if you do catch the virus, and reduce your chances of passing it on.

It also helps to protect the wider community from outbreaks, and reduces the pressure on local NHS services during the busiest time of the year.

More than 270,000 people in North Wales have already boosted their protection against flu by getting the flu vaccine this winter.

Find locations, dates and times for clinics here.

Residents can check their eligibility here.

Walk in without an appointment

From Tuesday, January 2, vaccination clinics have been offering both the flu vaccine and Covid-19 Autumn booster. All eligible adults will be able to drop in to a clinic to receive the vaccines without an appointment. Residents can choose to receive one or both vaccines.

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Many GP surgeries and community pharmacies will also continue to offer flu vaccination.

Painless nasal spray flu vaccines are available from GP surgeries for children aged two and three (age on August 31 2022). Schoolchildren from Reception to Year 11 can still get a spray flu vaccine at catch-up clinics organised by school immunisation teams. 

If you have already received an appointment

If you have already received a letter with details of your Covid-19 Autumn booster appointment, you can stick to the date and time on your letter or choose to drop into a vaccination centre at an earlier date. If you choose to drop in, there is no need to contact BCUHB to cancel your appointment. You will be able to get a flu vaccine at your appointment if you have not already had one this winter.

BCUHB is asking people who do drop in to be patient – you may face a short wait at busier times.

A spokesperson said: "Please be prepared to help our teams by waiting for a slot to become available."