Flu can be very serious and can even kill  – it spreads easily so you could be putting others at risk. Not only that but if you get flu and coronavirus at the same time you’re more likely to be more seriously ill. Those most at risk from flu are also more vulnerable to Covid-19.

Yet the best protection – one vaccine in the arm or a nasal spray if you are under 16 – is easy to get, is safe, and is free for more people than ever before.

You can get a free vaccine if you:

• are 50 and over
• have certain health conditions
• are pregnant
• are in long-stay residential care
• receive a carer’s allowance, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person who may be at risk if you get sick
• are a frontline health or social care worker or you provide health or social care through direct payments or personal health budgets, or both.

The flu vaccine is also available free to children and young people from the age of 2 – 15 and any child with a medical condition.

When you’re invited for your flu vaccine – make sure you take up the offer.

To find out about arrangements in your area – visit your GP surgery’s website, pop along to your local pharmacy or for more information about flu visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu.