You can get a free flu vaccine if you:
- Are pregnant
- Are aged 65 or over
- Live in a residential or nursing home
- Are a carer
- Have a health condition that increases your risk of serious illness from flu
Health conditions that increase your risk
You may be eligible if you have:
- Asthma or another long-term lung condition
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Diabetes
- A weakened immune system
- Multiple sclerosis or the effects of a stroke
- Cerebral palsy or another neurological condition
- Severe obesity (BMI of 40 or above)
If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible for a free flu vaccine, contact your GP practice.
Read more in UK Government guidance on flu vaccination eligibility and clinical risk groups.
Flu vaccination for children
The annual flu vaccination programme is available for many children and young people and is offered through GP practices and schools.
- Children aged 2 to 4 years (pre-school age) are offered the flu vaccine through their GP practice.
- All primary school children are offered the flu vaccine through their school.
- Young people in Years 8 to 12 are offered the flu vaccine through their school.
Children may also be eligible if they:
- Have previously been admitted to hospital with a chest infection.
- Attend a school for children with severe learning difficulties.
Read more about the flu vaccine for children.