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 early winter.

You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:

• are aged 65 or over
• 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.

You may be eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination if you fall into certain high-risk groups. This includes people aged 65 and over, those with certain medical conditions (like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, carers, and frontline health and social care workers. Children aged 2 to 3 years old and all primary school-aged children are also eligible for a free nasal spray vaccine.

The type of flu vaccine you receive depends on your age and health status. Adults aged 18-64 will typically receive the quadrivalent vaccine, which protects against four strains of flu. Adults aged 65 and over may receive an adjuvanted vaccine, designed to create a stronger immune response. Children may receive a nasal spray flu vaccine.

Yes, most people with an egg allergy can still have the flu vaccine. If you have a mild egg allergy, you can receive the standard flu jab. If your egg allergy is severe (anaphylactic), you may need to receive the vaccine in a medical setting where any allergic reactions can be managed. Always inform your pharmacist about your allergy before receiving the vaccine.

Yes, you can book a flu vaccination appointment on behalf of others, such as family members. Just ensure you have their consent and their relevant health information ready when booking the appointment.

Yes, the nasal spray flu vaccine is available for most children aged 2 to 17 years. It’s a quick and painless option offered as part of the NHS childhood vaccination programme. Some children with certain medical conditions might need the injected flu vaccine instead, so please consult your pharmacist or GP for more information.

The best time to get the flu jab is in the autumn, before flu starts circulating widely. However, you can still benefit from the vaccine later in the flu season. It’s recommended to get vaccinated as soon as the vaccine becomes available to ensure you’re protected throughout the flu season.

Most people experience no or only mild side effects from the flu jab. Common side effects include a sore arm, slight fever, or feeling tired. These symptoms usually pass within a day or two. Serious side effects are very rare, but if you have any concerns, speak to your pharmacist or GP.