Here’s who is eligible for a free NHS flu jab this year - and when it will be available

The government wants to increase the number of people receiving the flu vaccination this year amid fears coronavirus cases could coincide with cold and flu season.

In July, plans were announced to double the amount of people who receive the flu jab, from 15 million to 30 million.

Here’s how to book a free flu vaccination this year - and who is eligible.

Who is eligible for the flu jab?

If suitable, anyone can get the flu jab, but some may have to pay to get it privately, whereas people of a certain age, those with certain medical conditions, and frontline or social care workers are offered it for free on the NHS.

This year the flu vaccine is being offered on the NHS to:

• adults 65 and over
• people with certain medical conditions (including children in at-risk groups from 6 months of age)
• pregnant women
• people living with someone who's at high risk from coronavirus (on the NHS shielded patient list)
• children aged 2 and 3 on 31 August 2020
• children in primary school
• children in year 7 (secondary school)
• frontline health or social care workers

The NHS explains that just those who are at particular risk of problems if they catch flu need a vaccine.

Some pharmacies also offer free NHS flu vaccination to adults and social care workers in the categories listed above, but they do not offer this service for children.

You should also have the flu vaccine if you're a healthcare or social care worker who is directly involved in patient care.

You may also be able to have the flu vaccine at the GP surgery or a local pharmacy offering the service if you're a frontline health or social care worker employed by a:

• registered residential care or nursing home