Britains Flu Vaccine Industry Battles Uptake Hesitancy as Cases Rise

The UK is experiencing heightened pressure on its health system as hospitals report a significant rise in flu admissions, coinciding with industrial action by doctors. According to NHS England, the week ending 12 December saw hospitalised flu cases reach 3140, an 18 percent increase week on week and the highest for this period in recent years. This surge has prompted hospitals to remain on high alert, with experts warning that services remain under severe strain.

At the forefront of the national flu response is Seqirus’ facility in Liverpool. As Britain’s largest vaccine production site, the plant manufactures more than three quarters of the country’s flu jabs, with the capability to ramp up annual output from 60 million to 200 million doses should a pandemic arise. The government has secured an estimated 18 million doses from now, relying on the biotech industry’s robust supply network. Seqirus’ enhanced adjuvanted vaccine is specifically utilised for those over 65, underpinning the UK’s strategy to shield vulnerable populations.

Vaccine uptake, particularly among the over 65s, has surpassed the World Health Organisation’s target of 70 percent, reflecting successful public health messaging in this age group. However, a notable degree of hesitancy persists among younger individuals and NHS staff. Beverly Taylor, head of global influenza scientific policy at Seqirus, emphasised that many young adults believe their health makes vaccination unnecessary. Industry leaders are working to counter such attitudes to prevent avoidable hospitalisations and fatalities arising from influenza complications.

Reports suggest the early and intense onset of the flu season is largely attributable to the influenza A strain H3N2, a variant that has evolved genetically since the World Health Organisation’s February recommendations for this year’s vaccine formulation. The latest assessment from the UK Health Security Agency provides reassurance that current vaccines deliver effective protection for both children and adults, despite these genetic shifts.

The Liverpool site’s investment in a fill and finish facility has streamlined production timelines, reducing distribution delays by up to two weeks per batch and reinforcing rapid supply capabilities. Seqirus exports vaccines to around 20 countries and generates annual revenues exceeding £700 million, ensuring Britain’s standing in the global biotechnology sector remains secure.

While leading multinational suppliers such as Sanofi and AstraZeneca provide additional capacity for UK demand, the most pressing challenge for the sector remains public willingness to receive the vaccine. Professionals in the field cite a growing sense of vaccine fatigue, underscoring the need for continued outreach and education. As the festive season approaches and multi-generational gatherings become commonplace, medical authorities stress that now remains an opportune moment for immunisation in order to mitigate the risk of hospital admissions and severe outcomes.