NHS launches free flu and COVID boosters for over-75s starting October

From October, the NHS is rolling out a combined vaccination campaign that offers free flu shots and the autumn COVID-19 booster to anyone aged 75 or more, including care-home residents and other vulnerable individuals. The initiative follows UK Health Security Agency data showing an early rise in flu cases and a sharp increase in COVID-19 infections driven by the XFG (Stratus) variant, with September figures up 230% in new cases and hospital admissions.

Officials emphasize that protection builds over several weeks, so prompt vaccination is essential. The flu programme opened to adults 65+ on October 1, while the COVID booster targets those 75+, immunosuppressed people, carers receiving Carer’s Allowance, close contacts of immunocompromised patients, and frontline social-care workers. Recipients will be contacted to book appointments at GP practices or pharmacies offering NHS vaccinations. Early uptake is viewed as critical to reduce pressure on emergency departments during the upcoming winter season.