The Government is aiming to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 this winter by making 30 million flu jabs available, double the usual amount.
The vaccine is currently free for people over the age of 65 and those with certain medical conditions. The aim of doubling the number of those that get the vaccine is because medical professionals are growing increasingly concerned that people may suffer with seasonal flu and Coronavirus at the same time.
Free jabs will now also be available for Year 7 children and people living with someone on the NHS shielded patient list. For over-50s the jabs will be phased in, with priority given to high risk groups.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock is pushing for as many people as possible to get a flu jab.
He said: “Whether it’s for the first time or because you usually receive one, then I would urge you to get it, not just to protect yourself, but to protect the NHS and your loved ones from flu.”
