GP urges people to book a free flu jab – even if they’re healthy and under 65

Free flu jabs are now available to people who are at a higher risk of getting seriously ill.

People over 65, pregnant women, care home residents and those that are clinically-vulnerable are being urged by doctors to book their vaccination appointments for flu and Covid-19 jabs from October 1.

But the calls also extend to those who are healthy and under 65, if they are a carer.

People who receive Carer’s Allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person, can qualify even if they have no underlying illness themselves.

Adults living with someone who has a weakened immune system are also eligible, meaning a household member’s health can be a reason to get vaccinated.

Dr Asiya Maula, private GP at The Health Suite, said: “If you are the person a loved one relies on, protecting your own health also helps protect the support they depend on.”

Who is eligible for the flu jab?

• Those over 65, including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027
• People with a long-term health condition
• Pregnant women
• Care home residents
• People who care for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
• Those who live with someone who has a weakened immune system
• Those who are experiencing homelessness or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
• Health and social care workers

Who is eligible for the Covid jab?

• Those over 75, including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2027
• Care home residents
• Those with a weakened immune system

Do you have to be a paid carer to get the flu jab?

Eligibility is not restricted to people employed in care or receiving a benefit. Being the main carer for an older or disabled person is a separate qualifying category.

Dr Maula said: “Many people describe themselves simply as a daughter, partner or friend, rather than a carer. Yet they may be helping with washing, dressing, meals or everyday tasks that somebody cannot manage alone.

“If that sounds familiar, ask your GP surgery or pharmacist whether you qualify rather than assuming you must pay.”

Dr Maula explained that flu can create two problems for a caring household: the risk of passing the infection to someone vulnerable, and the disruption if their main source of support becomes too unwell to help.

“Vaccination cannot guarantee you will avoid the flu, but it is an important way to reduce the risk,” she said.

What does the flu jab protect you against?

Dr Maula stressed that the vaccine protects against influenza, rather than the many different viruses responsible for ordinary colds.

“Having a cold after vaccination does not automatically mean the jab has failed,” she said. “Flu and colds are caused by different viruses, and vaccination does not replace everyday precautions such as handwashing and covering coughs.”

Eligible adults can arrange vaccination through their GP surgery or a participating pharmacy, with online booking also available through the NHS website and NHS App.

Pregnant women have also been urged to have vaccines for whooping cough and respiratory syncytial virus. That’s because these viruses can be harmful to new-born babies and getting the jab during pregnancy provides the baby with some protection.