By Lauren Haughey
Copyright birminghammail
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has urged certain vulnerable groups to arrange an essential vaccination from October 1. Its guidance is especially vital for over-65s and anyone with long-term health conditions, alongside various other people. In a message posted to X earlier this month, the Government agency said: “Booking is now open for your free NHS flu vaccination. Check if you’re eligible and book online or via the NHS App for appointments from 1 October.” Flu jabs are designed to provide protection against influenza, which can prove fatal for particular groups. Every autumn or early winter, the NHS offers these injections to people who face a heightened risk of severe illness. The UKHSA’s social media announcement outlined that six primary groups were entitled to arrange their flu vaccination from September 1 this year, while another six are entitled from October 1. From September 1, this included: Meanwhile, the following six groups can have flu vaccination appointments from October 1, 2025: You can verify your entitlement for a flu vaccination through the NHS app. These injections are obtainable at GP practices, selected pharmacies, maternity services, and residential care facilities. The NHS clarifies that healthcare or social care staff may also be eligible to receive a vaccination at their workplace. You can receive a flu jab simultaneously with other immunisations, including the COVID-19 and shingles vaccines. Although it’s not typically given alongside the RSV vaccine, the NHS states that a doctor may administer both if they deem it necessary. According to the Mirror, additional NHS advice suggests: “Most people who are eligible for the flu vaccine can have it. “You only cannot have the vaccine if you’ve had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine. Some of the flu vaccines used in the UK contain egg protein. Tell the person vaccinating you if you have an egg allergy.” Common side effects of the flu jab include discomfort at the injection site, a mildly elevated body temperature, and generalised aches. These usually resolve themselves within one to two days. It’s crucial to understand that injected vaccines in the UK do not contain live flu viruses. Consequently, they cannot cause flu. For more information, head to the NHS website.
