Published: Wednesday, 6th November 2019

Have you had your flu vaccination this year? Flu is unpredictable and can be serious and even deadly for older adults, very young children, and people with underlying health conditions.

You could be eligible for a free flu vaccination

The flu vaccine is free and is the best defence we have against what can be a serious illness. If you or your child are in an eligible group, make sure you speak to your GP or pharmacist about getting your free flu vaccine. 

What are the symptoms of flu?

Flu is serious, and is different to the common cold. Symptoms can include:

  • a high temperature
  • body aches
  • fatigue.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is routinely given on the NHS to:

  • adults 65 and over
  • people with certain medical conditions (including children in at-risk groups from 6 months of age)
  • pregnant women
  • children aged 2 and 3 on 31 August 2019
  • children in primary school
  • frontline health or social care workers.
NHS Flu Jab Poster: Children ages 2 or 3, pregnant women, people with long-term health conditions and those ages 65 or older should get their free flu vaccine.

 

For most children, the flu vaccine is not an injection, just a quick and easy nasal spray. If you’re in an eligible group – make sure you get vaccinated. Speak to your GP, pharmacist, or midwife, or visit www.nhs.uk/fluvaccine for more information.