Stay Well This Winter
Protect yourself and others with the flu vaccine
Having the flu vaccine ahead of winter helps to keep yourself and those around you safe and reduces your risk of serious illness.
While flu is very unpleasant for most people, it can be very dangerous and even life-threatening for some, particularly older people, pregnant women, babies and young children, and people living with certain health conditions.
That’s why the flu vaccine is offered free of charge to people who are most at risk of becoming seriously ill from flu, or who are more likely to pass flu on to vulnerable individuals.
Am I eligible for a free flu vaccination?
You may be eligible for a free flu vaccine if you:
Are aged 65 years and over (including those who will turn 65 by 31 March 2027)
Are aged 18 to 64 years and have certain long-term health conditions
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
Are experiencing homelessness or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
Work in frontline health or social care, such as in a care home or hospital
When can I have my free flu vaccination?
The flu vaccination programme begins:
- 1 September 2026 for:
- Pregnant women
- Eligible children
- 1 October 2026 for:
- All other eligible groups
Eligible residents can book their appointment through the NHS National Booking System
Where can I get a free flu vaccination?
You can receive your free flu vaccination at:
Participating community pharmacies
The Living Well Bus (check Knowsley News and the Knowsley Council Facebook page for upcoming dates and locations)
Through the School Aged Immunisation Service
Children attending primary or secondary school will be offered a flu nasal spray when the School Aged Immunisations Service visits their school in the Autumn. Parents/ Carers need to give their consent happen and this can be done via the online system, information on which will be sent to all parents/carers through the School Aged Immunisation Service.
Information for those most at risk
The flu vaccine is offered to children to help protect them from flu and reduce the spread of the virus to family members and the wider community.
Children eligible for the flu vaccine include:
- All children aged 2 and 3 years
- School-aged children from Reception to Year 11 (aged 4 to 16 years old)
- Children and young people aged 6 months to 17 years with certain health conditions
For most children, the vaccine is given as a quick and painless nasal spray. Find out more about the Children’s flu vaccine.
Pregnant women are at increased risk of complications from flu, particularly during the later stages of pregnancy.
Having the flu vaccine during pregnancy helps to protect both you and your baby. It can be given safely at any stage of pregnancy and also provides protection to your baby during the first few months after birth.
If you have any questions, please speak to your midwife about receiving your flu vaccination from your GP or a participating community pharmacy. More information can be found here.
If you are aged between 18 and 64 years and have certain health conditions, you may be eligible for a free flu vaccine.
This includes people with conditions such as:
- Chronic respiratory disease (including severe asthma)
Flu can lead to serious complications for people with underlying health conditions. Vaccination is the best way to reduce your risk of severe illness and hospitalisation during winter.
Speak to your GP practice or pharmacist if you are unsure whether you are eligible. More information can be found here.
People aged 65 years and over are at higher risk of serious illness and complications from flu.
The flu vaccine helps to:
- Reduce your risk of becoming seriously unwell
- Lower your chance of being admitted to hospital due to flu
- Protect family members and others within the community
You are eligible for a free flu vaccination if you are aged 65 or over, or will turn 65 by 31 March 2027.
Arrange your vaccination through your GP practice, a participating community pharmacy, or through the Living Well Bus.
Other ways to stay well this winter
Alongside getting your flu vaccine, you can help protect yourself and others by:
Washing your hands regularly Washing your hands regularly
Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue
Keeping warm during cold weather
Ensuring repeat prescriptions are ordered in good time
Staying at home if you are unwell where possible
Need more information?
For advice on flu vaccination eligibility or local vaccination services, speak to your GP practice or pharmacist, or visit the flu page on the NHS website.
