The NHS is calling on specific at-risk groups to schedule an essential vaccination this month. This announcement holds particular significance for those born before a certain date, expectant mothers, children, and additional groups.

In a recent post on X, the NHS highlighted: “Nearly 8 million individuals have already received their flu vaccine. Flu can pose serious risks to high-risk groups—such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions. If you qualify, make an appointment online, through your GP, pharmacy, or the NHS App.”

Flu vaccines are crafted to protect against influenza, which can be deadly for some individuals. Each autumn or early winter, the NHS offers these vaccines to those at an increased risk of severe health issues.

According to an earlier update from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), six key groups gained eligibility to book their flu shots starting September 1 this year. An additional six groups were allowed to make appointments beginning October 1.

From September 1, this included:

1. Secondary school-aged children (from Year 7 to Year 11)
2. All children in clinical risk groups aged from six months to under 18 years
3. Pregnant women
4. All children aged two or three years old on August 31, 2025
5. Children with certain long-term health conditions (aged six months to less than 18 years)
6. Primary school-aged children (from reception to Year 6)

And from October 1, this encompassed:

1. Care home residents
2. Carers in receipt of Carer’s Allowance, or those who are a main carer of an elderly or disabled person
3. Those living with people who are immunocompromised
4. Frontline health and social care workers
5. Everyone aged 65 years old and over
6. Anyone aged 18 to 65 with long-term health conditions

Seniors who will turn 65 by March 31, 2026, are also eligible for the NHS flu vaccination this season. This includes anyone born on or before March 31, 1961.

You can determine your eligibility for a flu shot using the NHS app. These vaccines are accessible at GP offices, designated pharmacies, maternity services, and care homes.

The NHS explains that health or social care staff might be entitled to receive their jab at their workplace. It is generally safe to receive the flu vaccination alongside other immunisations like the COVID-19 and shingles jabs.

Whilst the RSV vaccination is usually administered separately, the NHS clarifies that a doctor may give both vaccines if they deem it necessary. According to the Mirror, further NHS guidance adds: “Most people who are eligible for the flu vaccine can have it.

“You only cannot have the vaccine if you’ve had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine. Some of the flu vaccines used in the UK contain egg protein. Tell the person vaccinating you if you have an egg allergy.”

By 1 October, the NHS had sent out more than 12 million flu vaccination invitations via email, with further notifications sent through the NHS App, text messages, and letters during the month. However, eligible Brits can book their appointments without waiting for an invitation.

For more information, head to the NHS website.