Darlington Primary Care Network - How do you make an appointment for a flu vaccine this year?

The first thing to note is your GP practice will be in touch via text message or letter when the vaccine is in stock so you don't need to worry about when it is available. You will be notified promptly.

The easiest way to book your appointment is via the NHS App which can be accessed through your smartphone or tablet. If you cannot access the NHS App please call your GP practice and they will advise you.

Why are things being done differently this year?

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic social distancing is vital to minimise the spread of the virus and therefore it will not be possible to offer vaccinations at your GP practice in the usual way.

There is a risk of a second peak of COVID-19.  If they vaccinate as many people as they can, as quickly as they can, this will help to protect the wider NHS against the normal winter flu pressures.

When there is a COVID-19 vaccination developed, they will be in a position to deliver that separately to the flu programme.

Am I eligible for a free flu vaccine?

The flu vaccine is offered free of charge to people who are at risk. This helps protect them from catching flu and developing serious complications.

You should have the flu vaccine if you:

• are 65 years old or over;
• are pregnant;
• have certain medical conditions;
• are living in a long-stay residential care home or another long-stay care facility;
• receive a carer’s allowance, or you’re the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill;
• live with someone who is at high risk of coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list) or you expect to be with them on most days over winter.

Later in the year, the flu vaccine may be given to 50-64-year-olds. More information will be available later in the autumn. Your GP surgery will be in touch if you are eligible.

However, if you are aged 50-64 in an at-risk group, you should not delay having your flu vaccine.

Frontline health and social care workers are also eligible to receive the flu vaccine. It is your employer’s responsibility to arrange and pay for this vaccine.