Overview

• Bookings are open now for free NHS flu vaccinations, with appointments available from 1 October, according to UKHSA.
• From 1 September, eligibility includes pregnant people, children aged two and three, primary and secondary school pupils, and children aged six months to under 18 with certain long-term conditions or in clinical risk groups.
• From 1 October, eligibility extends to everyone aged 65 and over, adults 18–65 with specific health conditions, care home residents, carers, household contacts of immunocompromised people, and frontline health and social care staff.
• People can check eligibility and book via the NHS App or by phone, with jabs delivered through GP practices, selected pharmacies, maternity services, care homes and school programmes, and some pharmacies may offer walk-ins after 1 October.
• NHS guidance says the flu jab can be given with COVID-19 and shingles vaccines but usually not with RSV unless clinically advised, notes rare contraindications such as prior anaphylaxis or ingredient allergy including egg protein, lists mild side effects that settle in one to two days, and stresses annual vaccination due to waning protection and updated strains.