Experts have urged people to get their flu jabs as soon as possible
People are being urged to get their flu vaccination immediately. Some people can receive their flu jab free of charge through the NHS, with appointments available from now through to the end of March next year.
Medical professionals at health test kit provider PocDoc have stated that people with specific health conditions should make getting the vaccine a priority. Lead clinical director Dr Kate Bunyan explained: “Getting vaccinated early in the flu season is important as it gives your body time to build immunity before flu activity peaks.
“This is especially crucial for people with cardiovascular conditions or heart disease who will all be eligible for a free vaccine, as catching the flu can trigger serious complications or worsen existing health issues.”
READ MORE: Flu and Covid-19 alert shared by UKHSA epidemiologist as cases rise
She added that receiving your jab early is beneficial as protecting yourself from flu can help ease pressure on the healthcare system, by reducing hospital admissions and demand for clinics and emergency services. She mentioned five groups in particular who should get the vaccine: “The flu jab is an important preventative measure for anyone who is eligible, as it helps reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation, and complications from the virus.
“It is particularly crucial for higher-risk groups, including older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions such as respiratory disease, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease (CVD). The vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common circulating flu strains, though it will not prevent other coughs and colds.”
Dr Bunyan suggested people may want to contact their GP about getting their jab. She said: “GPs will be working hard to reach everyone on their eligible lists, often running dedicated flu clinics outside normal hours – including evenings, weekends, or through joint efforts with nearby practices.
“If you haven’t yet received an email, text, or call, it’s worth contacting your GP surgery directly. For those not eligible for a free NHS flu jab, many pharmacies offer the vaccine on a walk-in paid basis, so it’s worth checking what your local pharmacy is providing.
“Some workplaces also offer flu vaccinations as part of their wellbeing programmes – it’s always worth asking your HR team if this is available.”
You can get the NHS flu jab for free if you meet any of these conditions:
- You are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by March 31, 2026)
- You 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.
READ MORE: NHS waiting list progress grinds to a halt as top medic flags ‘critical issues’
Dr Bunyan voiced concerns that certain groups could miss out on their vital flu jab. The expert said: “People from certain ethnic minority backgrounds, particularly Pakistani and Black Caribbean communities, and those living in more deprived areas, are at greater risk of missing out on their flu and COVID-19 jabs. These groups not only face higher hospital admission rates but also consistently lower vaccine uptake.”
Dr Bunyan said there are multiple factors behind this disparity, including lower awareness alongside concerns over mistrust and misinformation. She added: “Tackling these inequalities means making vaccines as easy and accessible as possible, especially for those most at risk.
“At PocDoc, we believe digital health tools and community engagement can help close this gap by empowering people to take control of their health and making preventative care more inclusive and convenient for everyone.”
