The NHS is currently rolling out its free winter flu jab across the UK, but has advised two groups of people not to receive it this season. Those who have previously suffered a serious allergic reaction to a prior dose, and anyone with a high temperature, are told to avoid the vaccine.
Vaccination programme phases and eligibility
The first phase of the rollout began on September 1, with initial doses prioritised for pregnant women and children. The second phase started on October 1, extending the programme to all eligible adults, including those aged 65 and over.
The deadline to book the vaccine online is March 30, 2027, with the final date to receive the jab under the current programme being March 31. The NHS states that most people are eligible for the vaccine, including adults and children, carers, pregnant women, and close contacts of immunocompromised individuals.
Who should not get the vaccine
The NHS website says: "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 jab offers protection against flu and is made available by the NHS every autumn and winter, particularly recommended for those most vulnerable to serious illness.
How to get the jab and side effects
Frontline health and social care workers should receive the vaccine through their employer, though if this isn't possible, the NHS recommends getting in touch with your local pharmacy or GP surgery. The NHS notes that the flu vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines such as the COVID-19 and shingles vaccines.
Potential side effects include soreness at the injection site, a raised temperature and body aches, while more serious reactions such as severe allergic responses are extremely uncommon. 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 goes down with time. The types of flu virus the vaccine protects against are updated each year, which is why it's important to get the flu vaccine every year.
