While flu is unpleasant for most people, it can be dangerous and even life threatening for some, particularly people with certain health conditions.
The best time to have the flu vaccine is in the autumn of early winter before flu starts spreading.
Please come forward for vaccination as soon as you are invited.
Important:
Covid-19 booster vaccine
Some people may be eligible for both the flu and the COVID-19 booster vaccines.
If you’re offered both vaccines, it’s safe to have them at the same time.
Find out more about the COVID-19 booster vaccine and who can get it
Who can get the free flu vaccination?
The free flu vaccination is being offered to those most at risk from flu first. This includes:
- younger children
- people aged 50 and over
- those in clinical risk groups
- pregnant women
Some secondary school aged children will be offered a flu vaccination at school, most likely later in the season.
If your child is aged 2 to 3, you can ask your GP about the flu nasal spray for children.
Information:
Find out how to get a free flu vaccination if you’re a front line health and social care worker
How to get the flu vaccination
You’ll be able to have the NHS flu vaccination at:
- your GP surgery
- a pharmacy offering the service
- your midwifery service if you’re pregnant
- a hospital appointment
If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccination, you can book an appointment at your GP surgery or a pharmacy that offers it on the NHS.
Find a pharmacy near you offering the free flu vaccinationWhat should I do if I’m not registered with a GP?
You do not need to be registered with a GP or have an NHS number to get a flu vaccination.
Registering with a GP is an important thing to do as it allows you access healthcare services, but you should not be turned away from a walk-in vaccination clinic or pharmacy.
You may be asked to declare the health condition that makes you eligible for the free flu vaccination. No immigration checks will be carried out when you receive the vaccination.
