Flu vaccinations

A flu vaccine is the most effective way to avoid flu and help to protect yourself.

Flu is a highly infectious virus which affects your respiratory tract – your nose, throat and lungs. Symptoms include headache, high fever, chills, sore throat, aching muscles and joints and a dry cough.

A flu vaccination is the best defence available, providing up to 90% protection.

The vaccine contains a viral protein that enables your immune system to make antibodies. These antibodies help protect you against the strains of the flu virus most likely to hit the UK this flu season as, predicted by the World Health Organisation. Protection starts to develop a week after receiving the vaccination.

Find more information about flu vaccinations and the answers to some commonly asked questions.

Our pharmacies are offering the NHS flu vaccination to those who are eligible*.

To book your flu vaccination, please call your local pharmacy to arrange an appointment. You can find your local pharmacy here.

NHS flu vaccination eligibility

*You are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination if:

• are 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2024)
• have certain health conditions
• are pregnant
• are in long-stay residential care
• receive a carer's allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
• live with someone who is more likely to get a severe infection due to a weakened immune system, such as someone living with HIV, someone who has had a transplant, or is having certain treatments for cancer, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

Learn more about eligibility and find answers to common flu vaccination questions.

Private flu jab service.

Most of our pharmacies are also offering private flu jabs to those aged 18+ and aren't eligible for a free NHS flu jab, contact your local pharmacy to make an appointment.

Private flu jabs are £16.50 in our pharmacies.