Flu

Flu is a dangerous virus and it's important we all do what we can to protect ourselves and others.

The flu vaccine is safe, effective and protects millions of people each year. The vaccine is recommended each year for people who are at greater risk of flu and who could become very ill from the virus and its complications.

Flu vaccinations are usually available from September to offer protection before flu starts circulating in winter.

This year it’s particularly important that you get vaccinated to protect yourself and others.

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

Front line health and social care workers can get a flu vaccine through the NHS or their employer.

If you're eligible for an NHS flu vaccine, you can:

• contact your GP surgery to book an appointment
• book online for a free NHS flu vaccination appointment at a pharmacy or in the NHS App (if you're aged 18 or over)
• book over the phone - you can call 119 free of charge to book a flu vaccine over the phone if you cannot book online. You can speak to a translator if you need to when using this service
• the NHS also runs walk-in flu vaccination clinics which are open to those eligible, with no appointment needed. Please check you are eligible before you arrive

The vaccination programme for pre-school children is provided by GPs. The school immunisation team provide the programme for children at primary and secondary school.

If you are not eligible for a free flu vaccination, you can pay to privately receive the flu jab for around £16 from participating pharmacies (subject to availability).

Please keep up to date on the national guidance for preparing and managing flu in the adult social care sector. 

If you suspect an outbreak of flu in your care setting, please call the Acute Response Centre for PHE South West Health Protection Team.

You can also report a single confirmed case of flu in a care setting or a new outbreak of acute respiratory infection (ARI).