Stay strong and get protected against winter bugs

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Health and wellbeing
Person taking part in a seated exercise class, stretching a blue resistance band over their head. Other participants use resistance bands in the background of a community hall

Credit: In-Press Photography

Flu and Covid-19 can make vulnerable people seriously ill.

They can even be life threatening for some.

Vaccines are our best defence against these infectious diseases, boosting the chances we stay well and active and lowering the risk of complications or needing hospital care.

You are eligible for a free flu vaccine via the NHS this autumn if you are:

  • Aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2027)
  • Aged 18 to 64 and have certain long-term health conditions
  • Pregnant
  • The main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
  • Living with someone who has a weakened immune system
  • Living in a care home
  • Homeless, staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter

Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer. Social care workers may also have the option of getting vaccinated at their GP or local pharmacy.

Check if you're eligible for a flu vaccine.

Anjan Ghosh is smiling at the camera during a headshot photoshoot

“The flu vaccine takes just a few minutes and gives months of protection. You’ll also reduce the chances you pass flu on to others or get complications and need hospital care”

Professor Anjan Ghosh Director of Public Health, Kent County Council (KCC)

KCC Director of Public Health, Professor Anjan Ghosh, said: “The flu vaccine takes just a few minutes and gives months of protection.

"You’ll also reduce the chances you pass flu on to others or get complications and need hospital care.

“If you have questions or concerns about vaccinations, please go to trusted sources like NHS Kent and Medway.”

You are eligible for a free Covid-19 vaccination if you are over-75.

Care home residents along with individuals who are over six months with a weakened immune system also qualify.

If you are eligible for either vaccination, but haven't yet made an appointment, you can do this via:

You can have the vaccinations at the same time.

There's also catch-up appointments available from the NHS for Kent children who missed their flu vaccine at school. Visit Immunisation community clinics.

Not sure of your vaccine history? Speak to your local GP practice.

Had the vaccinations before? You still need them annually because the the strains of viruses the vaccines protect against are updated every year.

More information