Health leaders say get vaccinated ahead of the early flu peak

Latest data from the NHS shows that flu is likely to peak earlier than usual this year, ahead of Christmas.

The following people are eligible for the free flu vaccination:

• people aged 65 to 74: book via the National Booking System
• at-risk people aged 6 months to 65 years: book via the National Booking System
• pregnant women: via their GP surgery, through their ante-natal appointment at the hospital or at participating pharmacies.
• healthy school-age children (reception to year 11): nasal spray administered at school
• children aged 2 or 3 years (on 31 August 2025): nasal spray at GP surgery or community pharmacy
• frontline health and social care workers
• household contacts of immunosuppressed people: book via the National Booking System
• carers (those who are eligible for a carer’s allowance, or those who are the sole or primary carer of an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if the carer falls ill): book via the National Booking System

Bookings are now open on the National Booking System or by phoning 119.

For those who are not eligible to get a free flu vaccination, it is possible to pay for it at participating high street pharmacies. People can check their local area on the NHS website (Find a pharmacy that offers free flu vaccination - NHS.

Lisa McNally, director of public health, Worcestershire County Council, said: “Flu can make you feel very unwell, and for some people it can lead to serious complications. Getting the flu vaccine not only protects you, but also helps reduce the risk of spreading it to those who are most vulnerable.

“There’s still time to book your flu jab. Contact your GP or speak to your local pharmacist to check you are eligible for a free flu vaccine.
Even if you do catch the flu after being vaccinated, symptoms are usually milder and recovery is quicker.”

NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr Will Taylor, added: “With the holiday season fast approaching, don’t let flu spoil the festivities. Flu can lead to hospitalisation and serious complications, especially for vulnerable groups. We urge everyone eligible to come forward and get vaccinated as soon as possible.”

Everyone who works in the Health and social care sector is encouraged to get the vaccination being offered by employers. NHS and social care staff in Worcestershire are showing the importance of flu vaccination by getting vaccinated this season.

Being vaccinated also helps with winter pressures by preventing or reducing the impact of flu.