The NHS has issued guidance that two groups of people should not receive the winter flu vaccine this year: those who have had a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose and those with a high temperature.
The free vaccine is being rolled out across the UK, with the first phase starting on September 1, prioritising pregnant women and children, and the second phase beginning on October 1 for all eligible adults, including those aged 65 and over. The booking deadline online is March 30, 2027, and the final date to receive the vaccine is March 31.
Who is eligible for the flu vaccine
Most people are eligible for the jab, including adults and children, carers, pregnant women, and close contacts of immunocompromised individuals. The NHS website states: "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 (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine."
It adds: "If you have a high temperature, wait until you're feeling better before having your flu vaccine." The vaccine helps protect against flu and is offered every autumn or winter, recommended for those at higher risk of serious illness.
Who can get the free NHS flu vaccine
Eligible groups include those aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by March 31, 2027), people aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term health conditions, pregnant women at any stage, care home residents, main carers for older or disabled people or those receiving carer's allowance, those living with someone who has a weakened immune system, and people aged 16 or over who are rough sleeping or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter.
Frontline health and social care workers should receive the vaccine through their employer, or contact their pharmacy or GP surgery if not.
Timing and side effects
The NHS notes the vaccine can be given alongside other vaccines like COVID-19 and shingles. Pregnant women can have it with other pregnancy vaccinations, such as RSV (from 28 weeks) and whooping cough. It's not usually given to older adults at the same time as RSV, but can be if a doctor or nurse thinks it's needed.
Side effects may include pain or soreness at the injection site, a raised temperature, and an aching body. Severe allergic reactions are very rare. The NHS adds: "The flu vaccine aims to protect you against the most common types of flu viruses. There's still a chance you might get flu after getting vaccinated, but it's likely to be milder and not last as long."
The vaccine usually takes up to 14 days to work, and protection declines over time, so annual vaccination is recommended as the virus types are updated each year.
