Bugs like Flu and Covid-19 can hit families during the Winter, especially older people, pregnant mums and people with underlying health conditions.
Getting vaccinated is free and helps to protect your family’s health, your time, and your wallet. So, see if you or your family are eligible for a free NHS Covid booster or Flu jabs this winter.
Who can get a free jab?
You can get the 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
- are a frontline health and social care worker
The children's flu vaccine is recommended for:
- children aged 2 or 3 years on 31 August 2025 (born between 1 September 2021 and 31 August 2023)
- school-aged children (Reception to Year 11)
- children aged 6 months to 17 years with certain long-term health conditions
You can get the winter COVID-19 vaccine if you:
- are aged 75 or over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2026)
- are aged 6 months to 74 years and have a weakened immune system because of certain health conditions or treatment
- live in a care home for older adults
Vaccines take about two weeks to work, so don’t wait!
Why it matters
- Getting flu, Covid-19 or RSV can do more than make you feel unwell — it can:
- Keep you off work or school
- Disrupt family plans
- Cost money if you don’t get sick pay or free prescriptions
- Cause serious and life-threatening illness in older, very young or unwell family members
Where to get your free jabs
- Contact your GP surgery to book an appointment
- For COVID-19 and flu- find a pharmacy or walk-in clinics near you (no appointment needed) and book online at nhs.uk or use the NHS app
- For COVID-19 vaccination, the Care Gateway will again be supporting for those who need additional support to make an appointment, find a walk-in or access a housebound vaccination- 0161 947 0770/0800 092 4020.
- Walk-in centres
For more information about winter vaccinations visit the Greater Manchester NHS website.
Childhood vaccinations
Manchester also has a guide for parents and carers to show free childhood vaccinations to help your child stay well and in school.
Find out more about childhood vaccinations