Flu (influenza) is a serious illness that kills thousands of people and hospitalises thousands more in England each year. The flu vaccination is the best protection for you and those around you.

It is important to top up your protection every year, even if you have had a vaccine or been ill with flu or COVID-19 before, as immunity fades over time and these viruses change each year. It is safe to have your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at the same time.

Those eligible for a flu vaccine include:

  • People with certain long term health conditions
  • People aged 65 and over.
  • Pregnant women.
  • Those in long-stay residential care homes.
  • Carers in receipt of carer’s allowance, or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person.
  • Close contacts of immunocompromised individuals.
  • Children aged 2 and 3.
  • School-aged children (from reception to Year 11).
  • All frontline health and social care workers.

Most adults will be invited to have their flu vaccine by their GP or local pharmacy. School-aged children will be offered their flu vaccinations at school. Children aged 2 and 3 will be invited by their GP.

Check your eligibility and book online at NHS.UK

Video: Flu vaccine

This video explains flu and how getting the vaccination can help protect you and those around you.