Flu guidance and support
Flu vaccine
Influenza (Flu) is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause serious illness and death. It can be more serious for younger children and older people.
Children have been prioritised to get the flu vaccine from September 2023 to protect them and help stop the virus spreading to others. This is particularly important as children mix with adults who may be vulnerable.
In most cases the vaccine is given to children through a nasal spray but there are some circumstances where an injection is given.
Adults who are eligible for the vaccine will be given the vaccine through an injection.
Who should have the flu vaccine (Children)
The flu vaccine is free on the NHS for:
- all children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2023
- school children from Reception to Year 11
- children aged 2 to 17 years with long-term health conditions
- children aged between 6 months and 2 years who has a long-term health condition; they will also be offered the flu vaccine
Where to have the flu vaccine
- Children between 6 months and 2 years with a long-term condition will have the flu vaccine at their GP surgery
- Anyone over 2 who has not yet started primary school will have the flu vaccine at their GP surgery
- All children at primary and secondary school can be vaccinated at school
- Eligible children of any age with a long-term health condition can be vaccinated at school or at their GP practice
- Eligible children who are home – schooled or not in mainstream education will be invited to a community clinic
- You can get vaccinated at your local pharmacy
Which vaccination should my child have?
The flu vaccination is the best way of protecting your children against the serious effects of flu. There are two ways children are vaccinated either through a nasal spray or an injection. The method will depend on the age of the child.
When can adults get the flu vaccine?
If you're eligible for the flu vaccine, the NHS will let you know when you can get it. Please wait to be invited.
Who can have the free flu vaccine?
The flu vaccine is given free on the NHS to adults who:
- are 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2024)
- have certain health conditions
- are pregnant
- are in long-stay residential care
- receive a carer's allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
- live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
When to get the flu vaccine
If you're eligible for the free flu vaccine, the NHS will let you know when you can get it. Please wait to be invited.
What happens if I am not eligible for the free NHS Flu vaccine?
If you are not eligible, you can speak to your local pharmacy who will discuss this with you, and they may offer you a vaccine. There is a charge for this service.