As the weather turns colder and flu and other winter viruses thrive, Hull City Council’s Public Health lead is urging everyone eligible to get their winter vaccinations.
For the first time, two- and three-year-olds are eligible for a free flu vaccine. They join all school-age children from reception to Year 11.
All those who qualify for a free vaccine against flu, Covid and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) are advised to take up the offer as soon as possible. Appointments can be made via GP practices, the NHS App, online or through local pharmacies. Many pharmacies also offer walk-in appointments.
Alison Patey, Director of Public Health at Hull City Council, said: “Flu, Covid and RSV can be very serious for those who are very old, very young, or have health conditions. Vaccination doesn’t always stop infection, but it greatly reduces the risk of becoming seriously ill.
“There are lots of convenient ways to book — through your GP, via the NHS App, online, or at a local pharmacy.
“It’s important to recognise that there’s some misinformation around vaccines. Anyone with questions should speak to their GP, or use trusted sources such as the NHS or World Health Organization (WHO). Reliable evidence shows that being vaccinated is far safer than not being vaccinated”.
Who can get a free flu vaccine:
- People aged 65 and over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
- Those with certain long-term health conditions
- Pregnant women
- Residents of care homes
- Main carers for older or disabled people, or those receiving a carer’s allowance
- People living with someone with a weakened immune system
Who can get a free Covid vaccine
Now is also the time to get a Covid vaccine. Those at higher risk of serious illness remain eligible for a free dose. This includes:
- People aged 75 and over (including those who will be 75 by 31 January 2026)
- Those aged six months to 74 years with a weakened immune system due to health conditions or treatment
- Residents of care homes for older adults
RSV vaccine
Some people can also receive the RSV vaccine — a respiratory infection that circulates mainly from October to February. While usually mild, it can be serious for some.
The RSV vaccine is offered:
- To pregnant women from around 28 weeks, via the maternity service or GP
- To people aged 75 to 79 (or who turned 80 after 1 September 2024), via their GP practice
Booking and further information
- Flu vaccine: Book with your GP, via the NHS App, www.nhs.uk/bookflu, or call 119. School-age children will receive theirs in school; parents or guardians will be asked to return a consent form.
- Covid vaccine: For those aged 5 and above, book via the NHS App, book online, or visit a walk-in site. Several are available in Hull.
- RSV vaccine: Offered through GP surgeries or maternity services.
For more information on vaccines, including how they work and common side effects, visit the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/why-vaccination-is-important-and-the-safest-way-to-protect-yourself.
