Flu is more than just a bad cold. For some people, it can increase the risk of developing serious lung and airway infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia or can make existing conditions worse.
Who is eligible for the flu vaccine in winter 2025?
The NHS recommends flu vaccination for several groups:
From 1 September 2025, pregnant women, all children age 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025, children aged 6 months to 18 years living with certain long term conditions can receive a flu vaccination at the Practice.
From 1 September 2025, primary school aged children from reception to Year 6 and secondary school aged children from Year 7 to Year 11 can receive a flu vaccination via their School Health Service. To learn more about the school-based NHS flu vaccination service, please click here.
From 1 October 2025, everyone aged 65 years and over, individuals aged 18 and under 65 with certain long-term conditions, care home residents and carers in receipt of carer’s allowance or those who are the main carer of an elderly or disabled person will be eligible to attend an appointment in the Practice for a free NHS flu vaccination.
How is a flu vaccine given?
For adults, the flu vaccine is administered as an injection. Children are typically offered a nasal spray, which is quick and painless. The vaccine is updated each year to combat the most prevalent strains of the virus, and protection from the vaccine also goes down with time, so even if you were vaccinated last year, it is essential to get a new jab for the 2025 season.
How safe is the flu vaccine and what are the side effects?
Flu vaccines have good safety records. While some people may experience mild side effects from the injection such as a sore arm or slight fever, these generally don’t last long and are far less severe than flu itself. Side effects of the nasal vaccine may commonly include a runny or blocked nose, headache, tiredness and some loss of appetite.
As we enter the 2025/26 flu season, taking proactive steps to protect our health has never been more important. As well as providing individual protection, flu vaccination will help reduce hospitalisations and relieve some of the burden on the NHS this winter.
I am eligible – How can I book an appointment for my flu vaccination in the Practice?
Please call our Reception team on 0207 402 4026 to book an appointment. If you have received an invitation to book your appointment using a self-booking link, please click on the link within 7 days of receipt.