Flu Vaccination

Flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to mild to severe symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes serious complications such as pneumonia, hospitalisation, or worsening of long-term health conditions. While most healthy adults recover within a week or two, flu can be particularly dangerous for certain groups.

Flu vaccination is recommended for people who are most at risk of serious complications. This includes:

• Adults aged 65 years and over
• Pregnant women
• People with long-term health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory illnesses

Getting vaccinated each year offers the best protection against the flu. Vaccination not only protects you but also helps prevent the spread of flu to family, friends, and vulnerable members of the community.

This year, most eligible adults will be offered a flu vaccine in October or November, as research shows this timing provides the best protection for most people. Pregnant women, children, and patients in certain special circumstances will be offered the vaccine from September.

We will contact all eligible patients to arrange a flu vaccination appointment at the appropriate time. If you believe you are eligible, please wait to be contacted.

Most school-aged children will be vaccinated by the Birmingham Community Healthcare immunisation team, and parents will be contacted directly.

For more information, see the UK Health Security Agency’s guidance on When should you get your flu vaccine?