Eligible at-risk groups are urged to get vaccinated amidst mounting concerns over flu cases in the UK. The NHS has warned of a 'tidal wave' of infections following an earlier-than-usual start to the illness season, which has resulted in the closure of some schools.

A message from theUK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)issued on X this week also reads: "Help protect yourself with a flu vaccine, it’s just like protective armour for those with long-term health conditions like #kidney disease. Stay strong. Get vaccinated."

Flu jabs are created to provide protection against influenza, which poses potentially fatal risks to specific people. Every autumn or early winter, the NHS delivers these immunisations to people who face a heightened risk of severe complications.

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According to official UKHSA advice, six main groups became eligible to secure their flu vaccinations from September 1 this year, while an additional six qualified from October 1.

From September 1, this included:

And from October 1, 2025, this included:

You can use the NHS App to verify if you're eligible for vaccinations. These shots are offered at GP surgeries, select pharmacies, maternity clinics, and care homes.

The NHS states that health or social care workers might also receive their vaccination at their workplace. It's possible to receive a flu shot alongside other vaccines, such as COVID-19 and shingles vaccines. While the RSV vaccine is typically not given at the same time, the NHS indicates that a doctor might administer both vaccines together if necessary.

In light of a recent influx of flu cases, a spokesperson at No 10 also advised this week: "There is long-standing guidance in place for people on a range of measures they can consider taking to help limit the spread of winter bugs if they have flu-like symptoms.

"This is neither new nor an instruction but simply something people can consider when trying to limit the spread of winter respiratory illnesses."

According to a previous Mirror report, they added: "It’s been a long-standing position.The best defence against flu is the vaccine, which is why we’re ramping up our vaccination efforts this winter with almost 17 million flu jobs already delivered, which is 350,000 more than this time last year."

For more information, head to the NHS website.