Book Your Flu Vaccine in Redditch & Bromsgrove with Knights Pharmacy
With the colder days setting in, you should start thinking about booking your flu vaccine. It may be something you have never considered before; so you may be unsure whether you are eligible for the flu vaccine, whether it is safe and where you can get it. However, there is no need to worry — Knights Pharmacy is here to help. We have compiled this ultimate guide to help you understand the vaccine itself, as well as why you need to book your flu vaccine in Redditch and Bromsgrove.
Am I eligible for the free flu vaccine in Redditch & Bromsgrove?
The criteria for who is eligible for the free flu vaccine changes every year, so it is important to stay up to date. According to the NHS, you can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.
What classifies as a long-term health condition?
Long-term health conditions that make you eligible for a free NHS flu vaccine include:
- Respiratory conditions, such as chronic bronchitis, COPD, and asthma
- Heart conditions
- Diabetes
- Liver or chronic kidney disease
- Neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or cerebral palsy
- Conditions or treatments that weaken your immune system, such as HIV, AIDS, chemotherapy, or steroid tablets
If you have a long-term condition not listed on the extended NHS list, we recommend speaking to your GP or pharmacist. They may offer you the flu vaccine if they think you’re at risk of complications from flu.
Who should not have the flu vaccine?
Most people who are eligible can safely have the flu vaccine. However, you should avoid it if you have had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose of the vaccine or an ingredient in it.
Some flu vaccines contain egg protein, so if you have an egg allergy, let your pharmacist or nurse know. You may be offered a low-egg or egg-free vaccine instead.
Are there any side effects to the vaccine?
The flu vaccine is very safe, and most side effects are mild and short-lived — usually lasting only a day or two. These may include:
- Pain or soreness where the injection was given
- A slightly raised temperature
- An aching body
These can usually be managed with regular arm movement or painkillers if needed. Serious allergic reactions are extremely rare, and vaccinators are trained to deal with them immediately.
Suffering from seasonal flu?
Find out how to ease your symptoms here:
Where can I book my flu vaccine?
If you’re eligible, you can:
- Contact your GP surgery to book an appointment
- Book a free NHS flu vaccination appointment at a pharmacy online or through the NHS App (if you’re aged 18 or over)
- Find a pharmacy that offers free NHS flu vaccination and walk in without an appointment (if you’re aged 18 or over)
Some people may also be vaccinated through their maternity service, care home, or employer (if they’re a frontline health or social care worker).
The last date to get your flu vaccine is 31 March 2026, but it’s best to get protected as early as possible during the winter season. Online booking closes on 30 March 2026.
At Knights Pharmacy, we offer the flu vaccine in Redditch, Bromsgrove and across the UK. You can find your nearest branch and book today using the link below.
This post was written on behalf of Knights Pharmacy by Harvey from Pharmacy Mentor.
