Kent Liberal Democrats Call for Urgent Action as Flu Admissions Soar and Vaccination Rates Plummet
The Kent Liberal Democrats are issuing an urgent call to action in the wake of the most severe H3N2 flu season in recent years, as the county experiences record hospital admissions and concerningly low vaccination uptake.
The party is demanding immediate, targeted measures to protect Kent residents—particularly the most vulnerable—and prevent the local health system from being overwhelmed.
According to recent NHS data, Kent hospitals have seen a surge in flu-related admissions, with rates now more than double those recorded at the same point last year. In the week ending 05/12/2025, over 320 people were admitted with confirmed influenza across Kent’s hospitals, stretching critical care capacity to its limits. The majority of these admissions are linked to the H3N2 strain, which is causing more severe illness, especially among older adults and those with underlying health conditions.
Despite the heightened risk, vaccination uptake remains worryingly low. Only 54% of Kent’s eligible population have received their flu jab this season, compared to the national average of 61%. Among high-risk groups—including the over-65s, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions—uptake has dropped to just 48%. This presents a grave threat not only to individuals, but to the resilience of the county’s health and care services.
Antony Hook, Leader of the Kent Liberal Democrats, said:
“Kent is facing an unprecedented flu crisis, and we cannot stand by while our hospitals fill up and vaccination rates plummet. The evidence is clear: without urgent action, many lives—especially those of our most vulnerable residents—will be at risk.
We are calling on the Government and local health authorities to act now, with a comprehensive vaccination campaign, emergency funding for frontline services, and proper support for care staff. Kent Liberal Democrats are ready to work with all parties and agencies to keep our communities safe.”
Key Proposals: Immediate Steps to Protect Kent
Intensive Vaccination Campaign: Launch a region-wide catch-up drive targeting high-risk groups, schools, and workplaces, with mobile clinics and extended hours.
Emergency Funding: Allocate additional resources to hospitals and GP practices to manage increased admissions and ensure continuity of care.
Support for Care Sector Staff: Provide urgent support packages for care home and domiciliary staff, including access to free vaccinations and mental health services.
Public Information Drive: Roll out a clear, accessible public information campaign to address vaccine hesitancy and communicate the risks posed by the H3N2 variant.
Recent modelling by public health experts suggests that, unless vaccination rates improve rapidly, Kent could see flu admissions rise by a further 30% over the coming month. The H3N2 strain’s high transmissibility and severity disproportionately affect older adults and those with compromised immune systems, many of whom remain unprotected.
The Kent Liberal Democrats warn that, without immediate interventions, the combined pressure of flu and ongoing winter health challenges could force hospitals to postpone routine treatments, further exacerbating health inequalities and delays in care.
The Liberal Democrats are urging all local authorities, NHS partners, and community organisations to collaborate on a coordinated response, aiming to increase vaccination uptake by at least 20% over the next four weeks. The party emphasises the need for transparent progress tracking and weekly updates to keep the public informed and engaged.
The Kent Liberal Democrats reaffirm their commitment to protecting residents, supporting the NHS and care sector, and working in partnership across political and organisational boundaries. Cllr Hook concluded:
“We must put the health of our communities first. By acting together—urgently and decisively—we can lessen the impact of this flu crisis and build a stronger, more resilient Kent for all.”