Who should have the flu vaccine

The flu vaccine helps protect against flu, which can be a serious or life-threatening illness. It’s offered on the NHS every year in autumn or winter to people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.

You can get the free NHS flu vaccine

The flu vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.

It’s offered on the NHS every year in autumn or winter.

• are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027)
• are aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions
• are pregnant – you can have a flu vaccine during any stage of pregnancy
• 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
• are aged 16 or over and rough sleeping or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter

Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.

Having the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines

You can have the flu vaccine at the same time as other vaccines such as the COVID-19 and shingles vaccines.

If you’re pregnant, you can have it at the same time as other pregnancy vaccinations, such as the RSV vaccine (from 28 weeks) and whooping cough vaccine.

It’s not usually given to older adults at the same time as the RSV vaccine, but you can have them at the same time if a doctor or nurse thinks it’s needed.

Who cannot have the flu vaccine

Most people who are eligible for the flu vaccine can have it.

You only cannot have the vaccine if you’ve had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine.

Getting vaccinated if you’re unwell

If you have a high temperature, wait until you’re feeling better before having your flu vaccine.

If you would like to receive a free flu vaccination, please contact the surgery on 020 8743 5153 to book an appointment with one of our HCA or Nurse.

Alternatively, you can book your appointment using our online services.

We look forward to helping you stay well this winter.