Boost your immunity this winter with the free NHS flu vaccination.

Flu and COVID-19 can both be life-threatening and spread more easily in winter, when we are all crowded together inside. As we learn to live with COVID-19, it’s so important to make sure you are protected against potentially serious winter illnesses such as the flu. Having a vaccine is the most effective way to boost our natural immunity and protect ourselves, and our loved ones from the harmful effects of flu, and COVID-19 this winter.

Who can have the vaccines?

The COVID-19 booster is available for people most at risk from the virus who had a second dose of a vaccine at least six months ago.

The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to:

All children aged 2 to 15 on 31 August 2021
People with certain health conditions
Pregnant people
Anyone aged 50 and over
People in a long-stay residential care home
Carers
Anyone who lives with someone who is more likely to get infections
Frontline health and social care staff

When should I have the vaccine/s?

It’s best to have the flu vaccination in the autumn. If you are offered both vaccines, it's safe to have them at the same time.

Which flu vaccine is given to children?

The flu vaccination is given as a nasal spray to children. If the nasal spray vaccine is not suitable, there is an alternative this year. Please speak to your child’s nurse or doctor about your options. If your child is school aged, an alternative will be offered at school or a community clinic.

For more information, please visit the NHS website:

COVID-19 booster

Flu vaccination