Lib Dems call for vaccinations in pubs and churches across Eastleigh as winter flu crisis looms

Amid surging rates of flu admissions, which threatens to overwhelm hospitals in Hampshire, the Liberal Democrats have called for an emergency vaccination scheme to be rolled out in community venues in Eastleigh and right across the country.  

This campaign comes as hospitalisations for flu have risen by 55% across the country, with an average of 2659 patients in hospital beds with flu each day last week, up from 1717 the week before and up from 1724 at the same point last year. 

The scheme would see flu jabs offered in village halls, supermarkets, churches and social clubs, along with dedicated roaming “jab vans”. It would call upon people who volunteered in the pandemic to help put jabs in arms. 

Commenting, Liberal Democrat MP for Eastleigh, Liz Jarvis said: 

“A&E’s in Hampshire were already totally overwhelmed before the flu surge, with vulnerable patients waiting days to be admitted at A&E. Without bold action, our local NHS may reach breaking point. 

“This year, we must get more jabs in arms or local people will suffer. I had mine a few months ago to protect others. That’s why I’m calling for vaccines to be offered in community spaces in Eastleigh - from pubs to churches - to prevent a disaster for our local health services and protect our elderly and vulnerable residents.”