The UK Health Security Agency has released the comprehensive list of individuals eligible for free flu vaccinations through the NHS this autumn. Eligibility will be phased out for different groups, with appointment bookings starting from October 1st.
Appointments for the free flu vaccines can be scheduled via phone or online through the NHS, with select pharmacies potentially offering walk-in appointments after October 1st.
Health conditions that may qualify individuals for the free vaccine include various factors highlighted by your GP. While the flu vaccine is generally safe for most, individuals with a history of severe allergic reactions to prior doses should avoid it.
Moreover, the NHS advises against getting vaccinated when feeling unwell or having a high temperature, recommending waiting until recovery. Possible side effects of the vaccine are usually mild, lasting one to two days, such as soreness at the injection site, body aches, and a slight temperature increase.
Although the flu vaccine may take up to 14 days to become effective, it can still provide protection against milder forms of the flu, potentially aiding in quicker recovery. The NHS emphasizes the importance of annual flu vaccination due to waning protection over time and the need to target updated flu virus strains each year.