Each winter, a different strain of flu causes a flu outbreak (seasonal flu). That’s why it is so important to have the flu vaccination if you want to be protected, even if you had it last year.
Why book here for NHS flu vaccination?
Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus. Unlike the common cold, it can cause serious illness and is responsible for many thousands of deaths a year in the UK.
People at higher risk of serious complications from flu are eligible to have a free NHS flu vaccine every year. You can find out if you are in one of these groups by using our flu eligibility checker on the Patient Access home page. If you are eligible, or if you have been invited for a flu vaccination by your GP practice this year, you can book a free flu vaccination with your Pharmacist using this service.
What am I booking?
This is a free (NHS) service for a single flu vaccine from your Pharmacist, which will protect you until next winter.
Is this service right for me?
This service is for people aged 18-64 years. It is not suitable for you if you:
Have a severe allergy to eggs; or
Have had an allergic reaction to a previous dose of flu vaccine; or
Have a severe allergy to latex (some pharmacists may still be able to offer this service as most versions of the flu vaccine are completely latex-free – please consult your Pharmacist); or
Are currently unwell with a fever (please re-book when you have recovered).
Are taking warfarin medication, unless your blood tests are in the correct range – your Pharmacist can advise
Have already had a flu vaccination since September 2022.
Please note that people in England aged 50-64 years who do not have underlying health conditions etc are now eligible for NHS flu vaccination. Please use the Patient Access flu eligibility checker on the Patient Access home page to find out more.
About flu
Symptoms of flu include:
- Fever.
- Sweating.
- Aches and pains.
- Dry cough.
- Sore throat.
- Headache.
- Feeling sick.
The symptoms are much more severe than those of a normal cold. Complications include ear infections, bronchitis and pneumonia.
About flu vaccination
There is a new flu vaccine each year, which protects against the four strains of flu most likely to cause outbreaks for that year. It is given as an injection in the arm.
The flu vaccine is normally given from September to November (but can be given later).
