Book your free flu vaccine now and protect yourself this winter
Winter can be tough on your health and can increase some people’s chances of becoming unwell from flu.
If you are pregnant or living with a long-term condition, it is particularly important to get your free flu vaccination.
If you live with a long-term health condition like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma/lung conditions, liver or kidney disease, cancer, or a weakened immune system, you’re at greater risk of developing more serious illnesses from flu. These include bronchitis and pneumonia, and it can also make existing conditions worse.
The flu vaccine is safe, effective and free for you. It helps prevent serious illness and keeps you well and out of hospital this winter.
Children can also get sick from flu and pass it on easily to others.
That’s why the free flu vaccine is offered to all children aged 2–16. For younger children, it’s a simple, safe nasal spray instead of a needle injection.
You are eligible for a free flu vaccination if you are:
· Under 65 and living with a long-term health condition
· 65 and over
· Pregnant
· A child aged 2 -16
· The main carer of an older or disabled person.
· A frontline health or social care worker
Book your free flu vaccine at your GP practice or local pharmacy today.
If you are a parent, you can book your child’s flu vaccine or nasal spray through your GP or school immunisation team.
For more information about the flu vaccine visit LondonWinterWellness.nhs.uk or Flu vaccine - NHS
Evening and weekend appointments available
Evening and weekend GP appointments are available here / at GP hubs in this borough this winter.
This means you will be able to see a GP, nurse or other health professional at a time which is most convenient for you.
Speak your GP about booking an appointment at your nearest GP hub Contact Us
Flu vaccine guidance for Muslim families
The full guidance and advice can be found here: British Islamic Medical Association
In brief
- Adults: the standard injectable flu vaccine does not contain porcine products.
- Children: the nasal spray (LAIV) contains porcine gelatine. Many parents choose the injectable alternative as it does does not contain gelatine . Your GP or school immunisation team can provide it.
- Religious views: some Islamic scholars consider the nasal spray permissible due to medical need, while others prefer avoiding porcine ingredients when alternatives exist.
Read the full guidance from the British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA): BIMA Flu Advice
