Eligible for a FREE flu jab?

Blue flu cells under microscope

This year, the FREE flu jab is available to:

  • All children aged 2 and 3 on 31 August 2021
  • All children in primary school and secondary school
  • People over the age of 50 
  • Those under 50 years old who are in clinical risk groups
  • Pregnant women
  • Unpaid carers
  • Close contacts of someone who is immunocompromised (has a weak immune system)
  • Frontline health and adult social care staff

Why is it important to have the flu vaccine?

  • More people are likely to get flu this winter as fewer people will have built up natural immunity to it during the COVID-19 pandemic
  • If you get flu and COVID-19 at the same time, research shows you're more likely to be seriously ill
  • Getting vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 will provide protection for you and those around you for both these serious illnesses

Where to get the flu vaccine?

You can have the NHS flu vaccine at:

  • Your GP surgery
  • pharmacy offering the service
  • In school
  • Your midwifery service if you're pregnant
  • A hospital appointment

It's safe to have your flu jab and Covid-19 booster jab at the same time. 

Rachel Byrne on getting the flu jab

I’m delighted to say I got my flu jab recently. The flu jab is safe and effective; it gives us, our colleagues, and our loved ones that extra level of protection this winter against the flu and its potentially harmful effects. Please consider getting it too! 

NHS and the flu vaccine