The start of autumn signals the start of flu season. Unlike the common cold, flu is a serious illness and causes many thousands of deaths each year in the UK. You can protect yourself by getting vaccinated. The vaccination changes each year, so even if you had the vaccination last year, you won’t be protected against this year’s flu strain.

Some groups, including over-65s, pregnant women and those living with a long-term health condition, are eligible for a free flu vaccination on the NHS. You can receive an NHS flu vaccination from your GP practice.

If you don’t want to see your doctor or you know that you’re not eligible for a free flu vaccination, you can book and pay for a vaccination from your pharmacist through Patient Access.