Flu Vaccination Information
Protect Yourself This Winter with Your Free NHS Flu Vaccination
Flu is a highly infectious virus that can make people seriously unwell. While many people recover within a week or two, some groups are at greater risk of developing complications such as chest infections, pneumonia, worsening of existing health conditions, hospital admission, and, in some cases, life-threatening illness.
The NHS offers a free flu vaccination each year to people aged 65 and over and to younger adults who are at increased risk due to certain health conditions or circumstances.
Why Should I Have the Flu Vaccine?
✅ Reduces your risk of catching flu
✅ Helps prevent serious complications and hospital admission
✅ Protects family members, friends, and vulnerable people around you
✅ Helps keep long-term health conditions stable
✅ Supports your independence and wellbeing throughout the winter months
✅ Helps reduce pressure on NHS services during the busy winter season
Who Is Eligible for a Free NHS Flu Vaccination?
Adults Aged 65 and Over
As we get older, our immune systems naturally become less effective at fighting infections. This means flu can be more serious and is more likely to lead to complications.
Adults Under 65 at Increased Risk
You may be eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination if you have a long-term health condition, including:
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
- A weakened immune system due to illness or treatment
- Severe obesity (BMI of 40 or above)
You may also be eligible if you are:
- Pregnant
- A carer
- Living with someone who has a weakened immune system
- A frontline health or social care worker
Why Is Flu More Serious for Some People?
People aged 65 and over and those with long-term health conditions are more likely to develop complications from flu. Flu can place additional strain on the body and may worsen existing medical conditions, even when those conditions are usually well controlled.
Even healthy older adults can become seriously unwell from flu, which is why annual vaccination is strongly recommended.
Is the Flu Vaccine Safe?
Yes. The flu vaccine has an excellent safety record and is given to millions of people every year.
Because flu viruses change from season to season, the vaccine is updated annually to provide the best possible protection against the strains most likely to circulate each winter. This is why a flu vaccination is recommended every year.
When Should I Delay My Flu Vaccination?
Most people can safely receive the flu vaccine. However, you should contact the surgery before your appointment or postpone your vaccination if:
- You are feeling significantly unwell on the day of your appointment, especially if you have a high temperature (fever).
- You have a new infection and are feeling particularly unwell.
- You have previously had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a flu vaccine or any of its ingredients. Please discuss this with the surgery before booking.
A mild cold without a fever is not usually a reason to delay your vaccination.
Book Your Flu Vaccination
If you are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination, we strongly encourage you to take up the offer as soon as you are invited.
By having your flu vaccination, you are helping to protect yourself, your loved ones, and the wider community.
Please contact the surgery to book your appointment or speak to a member of our team if you have any questions.
Important Information
Please note that the surgery phone lines are not open during Saturday Flu Clinics.
For information from the UK Health Security Agency on Flu Vaccine 2026 to 2027 - follow this link