This autumn/winter Be wise, immunise with a free flu vaccine!
Nearly half of the people in England (44%) who are at higher risk, or who want to protect others, can get a free flu vaccine this year. About 17 million people in England get the flu vaccine each year, with more than one million vaccinated last year in the North East and North Cumbria.
The flu virus changes every year, so a new flu vaccine is needed each year.
Starting from 1 September 2024, anyone who is pregnant, children aged 2 or 3 years (on 31 August 2024), and school children from Reception to Year 11 can get a free flu vaccine.
If your child is aged 2 or 3 years old or if they are aged over 6 months or older with certain health conditions, you can book a flu vaccination appointment at their GP surgery. We encourage you to book your child’s flu vaccine as soon as the vaccine becomes available. If your child is of school age, you do not need to make an appointment. They will be vaccinated in schools or community clinics – make sure that you sign their consent form.
Anyone who is pregnant will be invited to have a flu vaccine at their GP practice or during a routine antenatal visit.
From 3 October, more groups of people can get the free vaccine. This includes everyone aged 65 and over, and those who turn 65 years by 31 March 2025, people aged 18 to 65 with certain health conditions, carers, close contacts of people with weak immune systems, and all health and social care workers. This group of people can book a flu vaccine by using the NHS App, visiting the NHS website, or calling 119 for free. If you’re eligible, you’ll also get an invitation.
The NHS is also visiting housebound patients' and people in care homes to give the vaccine.
Don’t forget! If you are pregnant, or if you are aged 75 to 79, you can get the new RSV vaccine from 1 September 2024. This vaccine protects children and older adults from bronchiolitis and pneumonia.
If you're aged 75 to 79, your GP surgery will contact you about getting vaccinated. If you are 28 weeks pregnant or more, you can speak to your midwife or GP surgery about getting your RSV vaccination.
COVID-19 vaccines will be available to some people from 3 October.
You can find out more information about winter vaccines, if you are eligible and how to book by visiting www.nhs.uk/wintervaccinations.
Don’t get caught out this winter - Be wise, immunise.
