A wide array of people across the country could be eligible for the flu vaccine for free on the NHS
The NHS is urging three types of people to get the flu vaccine this winter. Generally, the flu vaccine is offered for free from the NHS every year throughout autumn and early winter, as this is when flu cases typically spike across the country.
While flu is not usually life-threatening for most people and gets better on its own, it can be far more serious for some people. This is because certain people are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill if they become infected with the influenza virus.
According to the NHS, elderly people, children, and those with long-term health conditions are at a higher risk of facing serious complications from catching the flu. This can include pneumonia, bronchitis, and a sinus infection.
Writing on X, NHS UK said: “Flu can be serious for people at higher risk — like children, older adults and those with long-term conditions. Protect yourself and those around you — the free NHS flu vaccine helps prevent serious illness.
“Book via your GP, pharmacy or the NHS App.”
How safe is the flu vaccine?
The key goal of the flu vaccine is to help prepare and protect the body against the flu, especially when it poses a serious risk to health or life. While the flu vaccine can cause some side effects, these tend to only last for a couple days and it is generally safe for most people who need it.
Keep in mind that despite rumours and misinformation, the NHS highlights that vaccines, including the flu vaccine, do not overload or weaken the immune system and are generally safe for both children and adults. Ingredients included in the vaccine also do not contain any ingredients that can cause harm, including mercury, and instead only contains essential ingredients to make them safer in small amounts.
If you are concerned about any ingredients in the flu vaccine, the NHS has full details of each flu vaccine being offered via patient leaflets available here.
How to claim a free flu vaccine
If you are eligible for the free flu vaccine, you can find a pharmacy that offers them near you online. The NHS pharmacy locator service allows you to enter in your postcode and will show you an extensive list of all available pharmacies currently providing the flu vaccine.
If you find that you’re not eligible for the free flu vaccine, you may still be able to get it at some pharmacies. However, you will probably need to pay for it out of your own pocket. You can also register yourself for a free flu vaccine by speaking directly with your GP or by booking a free flu vaccine appointment through the NHS app.