Who should have a free flu vaccine this autumn and why this is so important

Flu can cause severe illness which can lead to pneumonia and sepsis, resulting in hospitalisation and death, particularly among children, older people, pregnant women and those with a serious health condition. That is why those most at risk are eligible for a free flu vaccination each year, as this is the best way to be protected from complications if they get flu.

It is important that healthcare workers whose job brings them into contact with patients, have their flu vaccination to protect those they care for and work with. As well as clinical and nursing staff, this includes estates and facilities staff, admin support staff and additional clinical staff. You can access your free flu vaccine through your employer’s vaccination programme, or alternatively, book at a local pharmacy.

It is also important to have a flu vaccine if you provide unpaid care, for example as a family member, close friend or neighbour for an older or disabled person, to protect them from serious illness.

Book, change or cancel a free NHS flu vaccination at a pharmacy

The injected flu vaccines do not contain live viruses, so cannot give you flu. Some people may get a slightly raised temperature and aching muscles for a couple of days afterwards. This shows your immune system is working to protect against the latest strains of flu.

It is best to have your flu vaccination in the autumn or early winter before flu rates increase, as it can take up to two weeks for your body to build up maximum defences against the virus.

Remember that you need it every year, so don’t assume you are protected because you had one last year.

Pregnant women

Having flu increases the risk of pregnant women and their babies needing intensive care. Studies show that it’s safe to have a flu vaccine at any stage of pregnancy.

If you are pregnant, you can get your flu vaccine:

• at your GP surgery
• a pharmacy that offers flu vaccination
• or speak to your maternity service

Children

Each winter in the UK, thousands of children need hospital care because of flu. Children having their flu vaccination is one of the easiest and most important steps to protect them.

• Children aged 2 to 3 years can get the flu vaccine at their GP surgery.
• School-aged children (Reception to Year 11) should receive an invitation from their school.

The flu vaccine nasal spray vaccine gets the best protection against flu. For those who may not accept the use of porcine gelatine in medical products, injected flu vaccine is available as an alternative. You should discuss your options with your nurse, doctor, or school aged immunisation team.

Adults aged 65 years and over

Older people are more susceptible to the effects of flu. It can increase the risk of developing more serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse. In the worst cases, flu can result in a stay in hospital, or even death.

People with long-term health conditions

If you have a long-term health condition, the effects of flu can make it worse even if the condition is well managed and you normally feel well.

Long-term health conditions include:

• conditions that affect your breathing, such as asthma (needing a steroid inhaler or tablets), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cystic fibrosis
• heart conditions, such as coronary heart disease or heart failure
• chronic kidney disease
• liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis
• some conditions that affect your brain or nerves, such as Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy
• diabetes or Addison’s disease
• a weakened immune system due to a condition such as HIV or AIDS, or due to a treatment such as chemotherapy or steroid medicine
• problems with your spleen, such as sickle cell disease, or if you’ve had your spleen removed
• a learning disability
• being very overweight – a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above

Speak to your GP surgery or specialist if you have a health condition and you’re not sure if you’re eligible for the flu vaccine.

• People with a weakened immune system and their close contacts

Those who have a weakened immune system are at a higher risk of catching flu and the life-threatening complications that can come with it which can frequently lead to hospitalisation.

• If you live with someone who has lowered immunity due to disease or treatment, having the flu vaccine helps protect them from serious illness.

You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:

• are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
• have certain long-term health conditions
• are pregnant
• live in a care home
• are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
• live with someone who has a weakened immune system
• Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.

If you have any concerns or questions about vaccines, it is important you speak to a healthcare professional such as your GP, nurse or pharmacist, as they can provide clear, evidence-based information.

To find out more or to book online go to nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.