Millions more people will qualify for free flu jabs this winter, the NHS has announced, in an attempt to combat the "twin threats" of flu and coronavirus over the colder months.
All over 50s will qualify from December 1, instead of just those over the age of 65, families with young children and those with certain medical conditions such as asthma.
Those eligible will be able to book their jab at a local GP or pharmacy - everyone who qualifies is being urged to take the free vaccination to help curb the spread of the Covid-19 virus.
It comes as the UK's coronavirus hospital death toll increased by 250 on Sunday, ahead of Boris Johnson's 'Covid winter plan' announcement.
The death toll marked the highest Sunday increase since May 3, when 358 deaths were recorded.
However, it could be a more hopeful Christmas, as new reports suggest the Oxford coronavirus vaccine is up to 90% effective.
Trial results show that the vaccine is 70% effective when given in a single dose, but up to 90% effective when given as a half dose, and then followed up with a larger second dose.
Based on the findings, the vaccine may be rolled out in half doses, according to the University of Oxford researchers.
Professor Andrew Pollard, the vaccine group’s director, explained: "By giving a smaller first dose, we’re priming the immune response better to respond.
"We don’t know if the difference is in the quality or quantity of the immune response. We’re working now to understand this further."
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Who now qualifies for a flu vaccine?
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Those who live with someone at high risk from coronavirus
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All year seven children
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Those aged 50 to 64
Who else qualifies for a free flu jab?
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Over 65s
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Pregnant women
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Front-line health and social care workers
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Children aged two or three on 31 August 2020
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Children over the age of six months with a long-term health condition
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All primary school-aged children (reception to year six)
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Anyone in receipt of carer's allowance
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Care home residents
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People with long-term health conditions such as diabetes, asthma, hepatitis, emphysema and more.
