The 2020 Flu Vaccination

The flu vaccination is available every year on the NHS to protect adults and children at risk from flu and its complications.

This year, the flu vaccination programme is being expanded and more people are now eligible for the free vaccine. With COVID-19 in circulation, it’s more important than ever that eligible groups are vaccinated to protect them against the flu as it’s the best protection for you and those around you.

This year the flu vaccine is being offered on the NHS to:

  • Pregnant women 
  • Children aged 2 – 11 years old 
  • Members of a shielding household 
  • 65+ years old 
  • Frontline health and social care workers 
  • Those with a long-term health condition (LTHC) such as 
    • A heart problem 
    • A chest complaint or breathing difficulties, including bronchitis, emphysema or severe asthma 
    • Kidney disease 
    • Lowered immunity due to disease or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment) 
    • Liver disease 
    • Had a stroke or a transient ischaemic attached (TIA) 
    • Diabetes 
    • A neurological condition, e.g. multiple sclerosis (MS), cerebral palsy 
    • A learning disability 
    • A problem with your spleen, e.g. sickle cell disease, or you have had your spleen removed 
    • Are seriously overweight (BMI of 40 and above) 

Later in the year, 50 to 64 year olds who do not have any of the condition may be given the vaccine. 

Where can I get the flu vaccine?

You can have your NHS flu vaccine at:

  • your GP surgery
  • a local pharmacy offering the service
  • your midwifery service if they offer it for pregnant women

What can I do to protect myself against the flu?

Flu is very infectious and easily spreads to other people. It is spread by germs from coughs and sneezes, so we need to ensure we follow good hygiene measure, as they also one of the best ways to protect ourselves against flu (along with the vaccine) 

  • Wash your hands often with soap and water 
  • Use tissues to trap germs when you cough or sneeze 
  • Bin used tissues as quickly as possible 
  • Use the Catch it, Kill it, Bin it narrative.  

Watch the video below on how to wash your hands correctly:

Find out more about this years flu vaccine but visit nhs.net