NHS Flu Vaccination
The flu can lead to serious health complications, especially for those at higher risk. At Cleckheaton Pharmacy, we offer free NHS flu vaccinations to eligible individuals, helping to safeguard your health and that of your community.
Why Get a Flu Jab?
Getting a flu vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself and those around you from seasonal flu. Here’s why you should consider getting your flu jab at Cleckheaton Pharmacy:
- Reduces the risk of serious illness – Flu can lead to severe complications, particularly in older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.
- Protects vulnerable individuals – By getting vaccinated, you help prevent the spread of flu to those who are more susceptible, such as young children and people with weakened immune systems.
- Prevents hospitalisations – Flu-related complications can result in hospital visits, but a vaccination lowers this risk.
- Keeps you healthy and active – The flu can leave you feeling unwell for weeks. A vaccine helps reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
- Eases pressure on the NHS – Fewer cases of flu mean reduced strain on healthcare services, allowing resources to be directed where they are needed most.
- Safe and quick – The flu jab is a simple and effective way to protect your health with minimal side effects.
NHS Flu Vaccine Eligibility
During your consultation, our pharmacists at Cleckheaton Pharmacy will assess your eligibility for the free NHS flu vaccination. We will ensure that the vaccine is safe and suitable for you. If you have any questions about flu vaccinations, our team will be happy to provide expert advice and reassurance.
The NHS offers free flu vaccinations to individuals over the age of 18 who fall into the following categories:
- Aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- Individuals with chronic conditions, including diabetes or asthma
- People with lung, heart, kidney, or liver disease
- Those with weakened immune systems, or individuals living with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Residents in long-term care homes
- Carers, including those receiving a carer’s allowance or those who are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person
- Frontline health and social care workers
Please read the annual flu vaccination programme letter for the 2025/26 season.
If you do not qualify for a free NHS flu vaccine, we also offer private flu vaccinations at an affordable price.
Commonly Asked Questions
Who is eligible for flu vaccine on NHS?
You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2025)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.
When is the best time to get the flu shot?
The best time to get a flu shot is in the autumn or early winter before the flu starts to circulate widely. However, if you haven’t had the vaccine yet, you can still receive it later in the winter if stocks are available.
Do over 55 get free flu jabs?
For the 2024 to 2025 flu season, individuals aged 65 and over are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination. Those aged 55 to 64 are not automatically eligible unless they fall into another risk category, such as having certain underlying health conditions.
What is the cost of the flu shot?
If you are eligible for a free NHS flu vaccination, there is no cost. If you are not eligible, you can choose to pay for it privately at some supermarkets or high street pharmacies. The cost typically ranges from £10 to £20, depending on where you receive it.
What month is best to have a flu jab?
The best time to get your flu vaccine is in autumn or early winter before flu cases start to rise. Keep in mind that the flu jab is needed every year, so last year’s vaccination won’t protect you this season. Visit the NHS website to check if you’re eligible.
