People with two health conditions urged to get their free NHS flu jab now

People have been encouraged to get their flu jab now. Some people can get their flu jab for free on the NHS, and you can get your jab from now until the end of March next year.

Health experts at health test kit provider PocDoc said people with certain health conditions should proritise getting the vaccine. Lead clinical director Dr Kate Bunyan said: "Getting vaccinated early in the flu season is important as it gives your body time to build immunity before flu activity peaks.

"This is especially crucial for people with cardiovascular conditions or heart disease who will all be eligible for a free vaccine, as catching the flu can trigger serious complications or worsen existing health issues." She said it's also good to get your jab early as getting protected from falling seriously ill can help reduce the pressure on the healthcare system, by keeping down hospital admissions and the demand for clinics and emergency services.

Dr Bunyan said people may want to reach out to their GP. She explained: "GPs will be working hard to reach everyone on their eligible lists, often running dedicated flu clinics outside normal hours - including evenings, weekends, or through joint efforts with nearby practices.

"If you haven't yet received an email, text, or call, it's worth contacting your GP surgery directly. For those not eligible for a free NHS flu jab, many pharmacies offer the vaccine on a walk-in paid basis, so it's worth checking what your local pharmacy is providing.

"Some workplaces also offer flu vaccinations as part of their wellbeing programmes - it's always worth asking your HR team if this is available."

You can get the NHS flu jab for free if you meet any of these conditions:

• You are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by March 31, 2026)
• You have certain long-term health conditions
• Are pregnant
• Live in a care home
• Are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
• Live with someone who has a weakened immune system.

Dr Bunyan said: "The flu jab is an important preventative measure for anyone who is eligible, as it helps reduce the risk of serious illness, hospitalisation, and complications from the virus. It is particularly crucial for higher-risk groups, including older adults, pregnant people, and those with chronic health conditions such as respiratory disease, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease (CVD).

"The vaccine is updated each year to protect against the most common circulating flu strains, though it will not prevent other coughs and colds."

She also warned that there is a risk that some groups miss out on getting their flu jab. The expert said: "People from certain ethnic minority backgrounds, particularly Pakistani and Black Caribbean communities, and those living in more deprived areas, are at greater risk of missing out on their flu and COVID-19 jabs. These groups not only face higher hospital admission rates but also consistently lower vaccine uptake."

Dr Bunyan said there are several reasons for this, including lower awareness and issues around mistrust and misinformation. She said: "Tackling these inequalities means making vaccines as easy and accessible as possible, especially for those most at risk.

"At PocDoc, we believe digital health tools and community engagement can help close this gap by empowering people to take control of their health and making preventative care more inclusive and convenient for everyone."