COVID/Flu Vaccinations

Why is the flu vaccine important?

Every winter, flu places significant pressure on the NHS. For many people it causes several days of unpleasant symptoms, but for those at higher risk it can result in severe complications such as pneumonia, worsening of existing health conditions and, in some cases, hospitalisation. The flu vaccine helps reduce your risk of becoming seriously unwell and also helps prevent the spread of flu to family members, friends and others in the community.

Children are particularly effective at spreading flu, even when their symptoms appear mild. Vaccinating children not only helps protect them but also helps protect grandparents, babies and others who may be more vulnerable to serious illness

In line with the NHS national flu immunisation programme:

• Eligible at-risk children and other eligible child groups will be invited from 1 September 2026.
• Eligible adults will be invited from 1 October 2026.
• For patients who are eligible for both vaccinations, we will aim to offer the flu and COVID-19 vaccines together where possible, making it easier and more convenient to stay protected this winter.

Please choose your GP practice - Each year, GP practices order vaccines specifically for their registered patients well in advance of the flu season. We have carefully planned and ordered the appropriate vaccines for our eligible patients and will be holding stock ready for those invited.

Look out for your invitation - We will be sending invitations to eligible patients shortly. These may be sent by text message, the NHS App, letter or other communication channels. Please keep an eye out for your invitation and visit the flu vaccination section of our website for the latest information on clinics, eligibility and booking arrangements.