Thousands more people across Sefton can now get a free NHS flu vaccination as the national winter protection programme expands.
The latest rollout builds on last month’s initial launch, which opened up bookings for pregnant women, young children and eligible school-age pupils.
Who can get the jab now?
The free vaccination is now available to:
- People aged 65 and over
- Adults aged 18 to 64 with certain health conditions
- Residents of long-stay care homes
- Carers
- Anyone living with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Eligible frontline social care workers
- People experiencing homelessness
For the first time, people experiencing homelessness and those staying in homeless hostels or night shelters are explicitly included in the national NHS flu programme.
Vaccinations are usually given to adults as a quick jab in the arm, while most children receive a nasal spray instead.
How to book an appointment
If you are eligible, you can book an appointment:
- Online via the NHS booking service
- Through the NHS App
- Over the phone by calling 119 free of charge (interpreters are available on request)
Vaccines are also available directly through local GP practices, participating high street pharmacies, maternity services for expectant mothers, or via employers for health and social care staff.
Keeping Sefton safe this winter
Flu is a serious illness. It poses the biggest risk to older residents, those with long-term medical conditions, and people with lower immunity. Sefton Council is urging everyone eligible to take up the offer early to protect themselves, their families, and local health services.
Last winter across England, almost 19 million people got their flu vaccine, preventing an estimated 104,000 hospital admissions.
Cllr Joanne Williams, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said:
“Flu is much more than a bad cold and for some people it can lead to serious illness or hospital treatment.
“That’s why we’re encouraging everyone who is eligible to book their free flu vaccination as soon as they can. It is a quick and simple way to help protect yourself and those around you during the winter months.
“If you’re eligible, please don’t wait. Getting vaccinated now will help give you protection as winter approaches.”
Further details about flu and how the vaccine works are available on the NHS website.