The national flu vaccination programme commences from 1 September 2026.
Vaccination and taking steps to stop the spread of winter illnesses are the best ways to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our wider community.
Flu is passed from person to person by droplets created when someone with the infection sneezes or coughs, or by touching a surface that is already contaminated with the flu virus.
Flu is very infectious and will easily spread, so – if you feel unwell – try to stay at home for the first 5 days, have plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen as required.
Local NHS services will send out invites to the first cohort of people eligible – children and pregnant women – over the coming weeks via their GP practice, NHS app or letter.
Flu vaccination will be available from a variety of places in their local community, including their GP practices, participating high street pharmacies and the Living Well bus
Other groups will begin receiving the jab from 1 October including those aged 65 years and over; all adults in a clinical risk group; adults in care homes; carers and people in close contact with the immunocompromised; and frontline healthcare workers
The national booking system is open to eligible people for their flu vaccination, including pregnant women and children, who can pre-book their flu vaccinations for 1 September onwards.
More information on eligibility can be found on the nhs.uk website.