Who should have the flu vaccine
The free NHS flu vaccine is available this autumn to:
- people aged 65 or over
- people with certain long term health conditions
- those that live in a care home
- carers
- people who live with someone with a weakened immune system
- pregnant women and birthing people
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.
Most eligible people can get the flu vaccine from 1 October 2025 but appointments can be made now on the NHS website or in the NHS app.
Children’s flu vaccine
The flu vaccine helps protect children against flu and serious complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia. It is recommended for:
- children aged 2-3 years
- school aged children
- children aged 6 months to 17 years with certain long term health conditions
From 1 September:
- parents of children who are aged 2 or 3 can contact their GP surgery to book their child’s flu vaccination.
- school-aged children (from reception to Year 11) will mainly be offered their flu vaccinations at school. You can also attend a flu vaccine catch up clinic in the community.
Pregnant women and birthing people
It’s recommended that all pregnant women have the flu vaccine, whatever stage of pregnancy they’re at.
From 1 September 2025, pregnant women and birthing people can book a flu vaccine by contacting their GP surgery or maternity service.
From 1 October 2025, adults can also get vaccinated at a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination. Appointments can be booked on the NHS website or in the NHS App now.
For more information, visit the NHS website.