Millions of people could be missing out on free health protection this winter. Some people might be unaware that they fall into a category entitled to an NHS vaccine for a common condition that surges during the colder months.
Posting on Instagram, the health service said: "Eligible people can now come forward for their NHS flu and COVID-19 vaccinations ahead of winter. Flu vaccination is now available to more groups, including people aged 65+, adults in at-risk groups, care home residents and carers. COVID-19 vaccination is available to those at the highest risk."
Expanded eligibility for free vaccines
A greater number of people will also qualify for a free health boost this winter, including children. Checking your eligibility online or with a healthcare professional could help prevent serious illness during the winter months, reports the Mirror.
The NHS website said: "Flu will often get better on its own, but it can make some people seriously ill. It's important to get the flu vaccine if you're advised to."
Who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab this winter?
The NHS recommends the flu vaccine for those at greater risk of serious illness from the virus. The criteria to receive a free NHS flu vaccine in England and Wales include:
- being aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by March 31, 2027)
- being aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions
- being pregnant (the vaccine is safe at any stage of pregnancy)
- living in a care home
- being the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receiving a carer's allowance
- living with someone who has a weakened immune system
- being aged 16 or over and sleeping rough or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
Frontline health and social care workers can also obtain a flu vaccine through their employer. Wales specifically expands eligibility to more certain groups in its national immunisation framework.
For example, Public Health Wales explicitly lists homeless people, prisoners, first responders, and poultry or livestock workers (aged 16+) as distinct eligible groups.
Medical conditions that qualify
Certain medical conditions also make individuals eligible for a free vaccine, including:
- conditions that affect your breathing
- heart conditions
- chronic kidney disease
- liver disease
- some conditions that affect your brain or nerves, such as Parkinson's disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy
- a learning disability
- diabetes or Addison's disease
- a weakened immune system due to a condition (such as HIV or AIDS) or due to a treatment such as chemotherapy or steroid medicine
- problems with your spleen (or if you've had your spleen removed)
- being very overweight – a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above
Those who have previously experienced a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a prior dose of the vaccine or any of its ingredients are not eligible to receive it. If you have an existing health condition and are uncertain whether you qualify for the flu vaccine, consult your GP.
If you are eligible for an NHS flu vaccine, you can book appointments online or via the NHS App. You can also find a pharmacy offering free flu vaccinations or contact your GP surgery to arrange an appointment.
