Flu jabs

Why take the flu jab?

Taking the seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and the person you care for from flu. We provide guidance about your right to a free flu jab if you care for someone. 

When caring for someone, you may worry about what would happen if you suddenly became ill. How would you cope? What impact would this have on the person you care for?  

Am I entitled to a free flu vaccine?  

If you are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person, who may be put at risk if you became ill, you should be offered a free flu jab, according to government policy.  

You should also be offered one if you're receiving Carer's Allowance. If you feel this applies to you, you should be able to request one from your GP surgery or local pharmacist. 

You may also be eligible for a free flu jab if you are aged 65+, pregnant or have a certain health condition. 

Find out more

For further information, such as the health conditions that qualify you for a free jab, visit:  

If you live in England, see the NHS  website . 

If you live in Wales, visit NHS Direct Wales  website. 

If you live in Scotland, visit the NHS Inform  website .

If you live in Northern Ireland, see the flu vaccination page on  NI Direct .

We also have resources for healthcare professionals and employers to download and share to help encourage more unpaid carers to request their free flu jab. It is more important than ever to ensure carers, along with those they care for, remain protected this winter. Email comms@carersuk.org to find out more.