The flu vaccination is available every year on the NHS to help protect adults and children at risk from flu and its complications. It’s really important for you to get your vaccine as it will help keep you and your loved ones well this winter.
GP surgeries will be contacting patients to invite them to book their appointment. You can also have your vaccination at your local pharmacy. Flu can be really serious for people with underlying health conditions and can lead to being in hospital.
This year, the NHS is offering more people than ever a free vaccine. If you fall into one of these at–risk groups, then you will be eligible for a free vaccine:
adults 65 and over
people with certain medical conditions (including children in at-risk groups from 6 months of age)
pregnant women
people living with someone who is at high risk from coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list)
children aged 2 and 3 years
children in primary school
children in year 7 (secondary school)
frontline health and social care workers
Later in the year, the flu vaccine may be given to people aged 50 to 64. More information will be available later in the autumn. However, if you are aged 50 to 64 and in an at-risk group, you should not delay having your flu vaccine.
You can find more information here
The Government released updated information on flu vaccines and supply for the national programme. If you have queries about the availability of the flu vaccine, you can read the full government publication here.
You can also find additional information as to how people are being prioritised for flu vaccines here.
If you are being asked to wait for your flu vaccination you find out more here
If you are eligible for a free flu vaccine, then your GP surgery should contact you.
Even if you are not eligible you may be able to get vaccinated at pharmacies for a fee – please check with your local pharmacy for further details.