NHS flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
Flu vaccination
The flu vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.
It's offered on the NHS every year in autumn or early winter.
Who is eligible for the flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is recommended for people at a higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu. 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
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.
Children and expectant mums can already receive their Flu vaccine ahead of winter.
How to get the Flu Vaccine
Eligible people are able to book online or through the NHS App. Adults aged 18 and over can book a flu vaccination appointment at a pharmacy, and parents can book appointments for children aged 2 or 3 years.
Eligible people may also be invited to attend appointments at their GP practice, local pharmacy or care home.
You can call 119 free of charge to book over the phone if you cannot book online. You can speak to a translator if you need to.
COVID-19 vaccination
The COVID-19 vaccines are offered because viruses change and protection fades over time.
Who is eligible to have the COVID-19 vaccine?
You can get the winter COVID-19 vaccine if you:
- are aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2026)
- are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment
- live in a care home for older adults
How to get the COVID-19 vaccine
If you're eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine, you can book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment online or in the NHS App now.
You can call 119 free of charge to book over the phone if you cannot book online. You can speak to a translator if you need to.
Eligible people may also be invited to attend appointments at their GP practice, local pharmacy or care home.
You do not need to wait for an invitation before booking an appointment.
More information about eligibility and how to book appointments is available at www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.
