NHS Warns Two Groups to Avoid Flu Vaccination This Season

The National Health Service (NHS) has launched its flu vaccination programme, allowing eligible individuals to book appointments. However, health officials caution that two specific groups should exercise caution or potentially avoid receiving the flu jab altogether.

Groups Advised to Postpone Vaccination

The first group includes individuals who are currently feeling unwell or have a high temperature. Official guidance from the NHS indicates that these individuals should postpone their vaccinations until they have fully recovered. The flu vaccine can impact the immune system, and if someone is already battling an illness, their body might not respond effectively to the vaccine.

NHS flu jabs will be available until March 31, 2026. While receiving the vaccine earlier can provide protection during the peak of flu season, those who are ill may benefit from waiting until they are well again. More details are available on the NHS website.

The second group advised to approach the flu jab with caution includes those who have experienced allergic reactions to previous flu vaccines or any of the vaccine’s components. According to NHS guidance, “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 to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in the vaccine.” It is important to note that some flu vaccines in the UK contain egg protein, so individuals with an egg allergy should inform the healthcare provider before receiving the jab.

Eligibility and Appointment Booking

The NHS provides the free flu vaccine to several groups, including:
– Individuals aged 65 or older by March 31, 2026
– People with certain long-term health conditions
– Pregnant women
– Care home residents
– Main carers for older or disabled individuals
– Those living with someone who has a weakened immune system

Appointments for the flu vaccination can be arranged either by phone or online through the NHS. Some pharmacies also offer walk-in appointments. For those aged 18 and over, the flu jab can be scheduled by contacting their GP surgery or through the NHS App. Individuals who are unsure about their eligibility due to health conditions are encouraged to consult their GP for clarification.

While side effects such as soreness at the injection site, body aches, and a mildly raised temperature may occur, these symptoms typically resolve within one to two days. The flu vaccine usually takes up to 14 days to become effective. Although it is still possible to contract the flu after vaccination, it is generally expected to be a milder version of the illness, allowing for a quicker recovery than without the jab.

The NHS emphasizes that “protection from the flu vaccine goes down with time,” and the flu virus strains targeted by the vaccine are updated annually. This underlines the importance of getting vaccinated each year to ensure optimal protection against the flu.