Eligible Brits are now able to get their free flu vaccine through the NHS, but some may not be able to have their jab
The NHS has officially launched its flu vaccine programme, with all eligible people now able to book their free jabs. However, there are two groups of people who may need to exercise caution or avoid the jab altogether.
Official guidelines suggest that anyone feeling unwell or running a high temperature should postpone getting the vaccine until they are back in good health. The jab can temporarily impact your immune system, and if you are already battling an illness, your body might struggle to respond effectively if you get the jab while moderately or severely ill.
It could also make it more difficult to distinguish between side effects from the vaccine and symptoms of your illness. The NHS flu jabs are available until March 31, 2026, and while getting it sooner can protect you during the peak of flu season, it might be best to delay your jab until you are feeling better. More information is available on the NHS website.
The second group of people who might be advised against the flu jab are those who have had allergic reactions to previous flu vaccines or ingredients in the vaccine. The official guidance notes: “Most people who are eligible for the flu vaccine can have it.
“You only cannot have the vaccine if you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine. Some of the flu vaccines used in the UK contain egg protein. Tell the person vaccinating you if you have an egg allergy.”
Several different flu jabs are given across the UK, with the age group determining which type you receive. The ingredients for each vaccine can be found online.
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People who are eligible for the free flu vaccine:
- Aged 65 or over by 31 March 2026
- Have certain long-term health conditions
- Pregnant women
- Living in a care home
- Main carers for older or disabled people or those recieving carer’s allowance
- Living with someone who has a weakened immune system
Free jabs can be booked via telephone or online through the NHS. Certain pharmacies may also provide walk-in slots from October 1 onwards.
You can also arrange a flu vaccination by calling your GP practice or using the NHS App if you’re 18 or older. Your doctor can verify whether your medical conditions qualify you for the jab if you’re uncertain.
The vaccination may trigger some side effects, though these should remain minor and disappear within one to two days. These can include tenderness at the injection site, general aches throughout the body and a slight temperature increase.
The flu jab typically requires up to 14 days to become effective, and there remains a possibility of contracting flu even after vaccination, though this would likely be a less severe form of the illness and could speed up recovery.
The NHS explained: “Protection from the flu vaccine goes down with time and the types of flu virus the vaccine protects against are updated each year. This is why it’s important to get the flu vaccine every year.”