Residents urged to get protected as flu cases surge across Tameside

Tameside residents are being encouraged to get vaccinated against flu as cases rise sharply across the region, putting extra pressure on local health services.

Figures from early December show an 80% increase in flu cases in the last 7–10 days, with hospital admissions up by 55% nationally. The North West and Midlands are seeing some of the highest rates, and younger people aged 5–14 are experiencing the greatest rise.

This surge is leading to increased demand on NHS 111, emergency departments and hospital beds. Officials warn that catching flu not only makes people feel unwell but also risks spreading illness to family and friends, while adding strain to already busy services.

The best way for individuals to protect themselves, family and friends is to get vaccinated. It’s not too late as flu vaccines are available at GP practices, pharmacies and local drop-in clinics. Vaccination reduces the risk of serious illness and helps keep pressure off the NHS.

Upcoming local clinics

For school-aged children (Reception to Year 11):

• Wednesday 17 December, 1pm to 4pm
  Unit 12, Tameside Business Park, Windmill Lane, Denton, M34 3QS
• Wednesday 17 December, 3pm to 5pm
  North Family Hub, St Peter’s Children’s Centre, Trafalgar Square, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL7 0LL

To book an appointment, please call 03333 583 397 (option 1, option 6, option 1)

For children aged 2 or 3 years (on 31 August 2025):

• Thursday 18 December, 4pm to 7pm
  Ashton Primary Care Centre, 193 Old Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 7SR
  (Open drop-in clinic – no need to book)

For adults 75+ or immunocompromised people from 6 months (No appointment needed – look out for the NHS van or gazebo):

• Wednesday 17 December, 10am to 6pm
  Ladysmith Shopping Centre (Outside Greggs), OL6 7JD
• Thursday 18 December, 10am to 6pm
  Asda/Starbucks Car Park, Cavendish Street, OL6 7PF
• Friday 19 December, 10am to 6pm
  Armentieres Square, Stalybridge, SK15 2BR
• Saturday 20 December, 10am to 1pm
  Crown Point Retail Park, Denton, M34 3JP
• Saturday 20 December, 1:30pm to 4pm
  Morrison’s Denton, Saxon Street, M34 3DS
• Sunday 21 December, 10:30am to 4pm
  Asda/Starbucks Car Park, Cavendish Street, OL6 7PF

Who is eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine?

• Adults aged 65 and over
• People living with long-term health conditions
• Pregnant women
• Residents in care homes
• Main carers or those living with someone who has a weakened immune system
• Frontline health and social care workers
• Children aged 2–3 years, school-aged children (Reception to Year 11), and children aged 6 months to 17 years with certain health conditions

Anyone not eligible for a free jab can still pay for the vaccine at many high street pharmacies for £15–£25.

This year’s flu season started earlier, and the strain circulating hasn’t been seen much in recent years, meaning lower immunity in the community. The flu vaccine remains effective and offers the strongest protection against severe illness.

Cllr Taf Sharif, Tameside Council Executive Member for Population Health and Wellbeing, said: "We’re seeing a significant rise in flu cases locally, and this is putting real pressure on our NHS services. The best way to protect yourself and your loved ones is to get vaccinated, which is quick, easy and still available at local clinics and pharmacies. By taking this simple step, you’ll not only reduce your risk of serious illness but also help keep our hospitals and GPs free to care for those who need them most. So please don’t wait and get your flu jab today."

Details of local pharmacies offering free flu vaccination clinics can be found at:
www.nhs.uk/service-search/vaccination-and-booking-services/find-a-pharmacy-that-offers-free-flu-vaccination

For anyone needing a clinic outside Tameside, information on walk-in vaccination sites across Greater Manchester is available at:
gmintegratedcare.org.uk/covid-vaccine-walk-in-clinics

Full details of children’s catch-up flu clinics can be found at:
gmintegratedcare.org.uk/childrens-catch-up-flu-vaccination-clinics