NHS flu and COVID-19 vaccination programme is underway to help protect vulnerable people this winter

The NHS is urging people to have their free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations as soon as possible, if they are eligible for them, particularly those with long-term health conditions, and their family carers.

The reminder comes after Australia recorded one of its toughest flu seasons in recent years, with cases soaring and hospitals under pressure. Experts say this is a sign that the UK could also be facing a severe flu outbreak this winter.

Who can get a free NHS flu jab?

• People aged 65 or over;
• People with certain long-term health conditions or who are pregnant;
• People with caring responsibilities (primarily the main carer of an older or disabled person).
• Children aged 2 or 3 and primary school aged children;
• Long-stay residential care residents;
• Those who live with someone who is more likely to get infections, such as someone who has HIV, has had a transplant or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis; and
• Frontline health or social care workers.

If you are not eligible for a free vaccination, you can pay for it privately (costs vary but are typically up to £20).

Dr Sam Williamson, Associate Medical Director at Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB, said: “Flu is not trivial. Every winter we see patients with long-term conditions – such as heart disease, asthma or diabetes – become very unwell after catching it. Even if you usually feel in control of your condition, flu can trigger a chain reaction of health problems that, in the worst cases, could put you in hospital. Vaccination is quick, safe, and free. Please don’t wait until flu is already spreading, book your jab now.”

Who can get a COVID-19 vaccination?

• People aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31st January 2026);
• People aged 6 months to 74 years who have a weakened immune system because of a health condition or treatment; and
• Those who live in a care home for older adults.

Most people can have the COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as the flu jab – talk to your healthcare provider if you have questions.

How to get your vaccinations

Flu vaccinations for the over 65s and people with long-term health conditions, and COVID-19 vaccinations for those aged 75 or who are immunosuppressed, are available from GP Practices and most pharmacies.
Your GP practice will invite you or you can book an appointment on the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/

Children aged 2-3 can have the flu nasal spray at their GP practice, or some pharmacies.

School-aged children will be offered the flu nasal spray vaccination during the school day by vaccination teams.

If you’re eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine, you can:
• Book a COVID-19 vaccination appointment online at www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/book-covid-19-vaccination/ or in the NHS App (if you’re aged 5 years or over).
• Find a walk-in COVID-19 vaccination site to get vaccinated without an appointment if you’re aged 5 years or over. Visit www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/vaccination-and-booking-services/find-a-walk-in-covid-19-vaccination-site/

When does the 2025/2026 vaccination programme end?

The last date you will be able to get your flu vaccine is 31st March 2026, but it’s best to get vaccinated sooner to protect yourself during winter, ideally before the end of November.

The final date you will be able to get your COVID-19 vaccine is 31st January 2026. Online booking will close on 30 January 2026.

Get more information about flu and COVID-19 vaccinations at:
www.hertsandwestessex.ics.nhs.uk/your-health-and-care/vaccinations
www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/covid-19-vaccine/
www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/flu-vaccine/