Staying protected during flu season starts with getting your flu jab at the right time. Last winter, the vaccine is estimated to have prevented around 96,000 to 120,200 hospital admissions in England, according to the UK Health Security Agency. Getting your flu jab at the right time depends on your age, overall health, and how early the flu virus begins to circulate each year. Understanding when to get your flu vaccine helps ensure maximum protection just when you need it most.
Why Is Timing Important for Your Flu Vaccination?
Getting your flu jab at the right time gives your body the chance to build up immunity before flu season peaks. It usually takes about two weeks after vaccination for your immune system to develop enough antibodies to fight the infection effectively.
A timely flu jab can:
- Reduce your risk of getting the flu.
- Prevent serious illness or hospitalisation.
- Protect vulnerable people around you.
If you delay your flu vaccine, you might not be fully protected when the virus becomes more active later in the year.
When Does the Flu Vaccine Season Start in the UK?
In the UK, the flu vaccine season typically runs from September to March. Most people are encouraged to get their flu jab between late September and early December. This window allows time for immunity to develop before the flu season reaches its highest levels.
The NHS flu jab schedule usually begins in early autumn, when most pharmacies start offering flu vaccination appointments. Getting vaccinated too early, such as in summer, is not advised because protection may wear off before the flu season comes to an end.
Who Gets the Flu Jab First?
Every year, priority is given to people at higher risk, including:
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with long-term health conditions
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Children aged 2 to 16
If you fall into any of these categories, you may receive an invitation earlier in the season.
How Long Does Flu Jab Protection Last?
The protection from a flu vaccine generally lasts about six months. Since flu viruses change every year, you need a new jab each season to stay protected. Even if you received one last year, the current vaccine will target the strains most likely to circulate this winter.
What Happens If You Miss the Early Flu Jab Period?
If you miss your early flu jab appointment, it’s still worthwhile to get vaccinated later in the season. Flu viruses continue to circulate well into March, so late vaccination still provides meaningful protection.
However, the longer you wait, the greater the chance of exposure before your immunity builds. For this reason, pharmacists advise getting your jab as soon as the new vaccine becomes available in the autumn months.
Is It Ever Too Late for the Flu Vaccine?
It’s rarely too late. As long as flu viruses are spreading in the community, you can benefit from a jab. The only exception is if the season has fully ended and the next vaccine batch is being prepared for the following year.
How Do You Book a Flu Jab Appointment?
Booking your flu jab is simple and can often be done without seeing a GP. Pharmacies across the UK offer quick and convenient flu jab appointments — many without the need for a referral.
You can:
- Book your flu jab appointment online with Anna Pharmacy at a time that suits you.
- Visit your nearest Anna Pharmacy branch for a convenient same-day appointment (subject to availability).
- Check with our pharmacists to see if you qualify for a free NHS flu jab.
If you are not eligible for the free vaccine, you can still receive a private flu jab at Anna Pharmacy.
What Should You Expect During the Appointment?
Your appointment is quick and straightforward. Our pharmacists will:
- Ask about any allergies or past reactions.
- Administer the vaccine safely in your upper arm.
- Provide aftercare advice, such as avoiding heavy exercise for a few hours.
Most people can return to normal activities straight away.
When Is the Best Time for Children to Get the Flu Vaccine?
Children are often given a nasal spray flu vaccine, which is quick, gentle, and needle-free. The best time for children to get their flu vaccine is in the early autumn months, ideally between October and November, before flu viruses start spreading widely.
At Anna Pharmacy, our pharmacists can guide parents on suitable timing and ensure children are protected early in the season. Getting children vaccinated at the right time helps protect them and reduces the spread of flu within families and the wider community.
What About Pregnant Women?
Pregnant women are advised to get the flu jab as soon as it becomes available, at any stage of pregnancy. The vaccine protects both the mother and baby, reducing the risk of serious complications from the flu.
Protect Yourself This Season with Anna Pharmacy
The flu can spread quickly, even before symptoms appear. Getting your flu jab at the right time is the simplest way to stay protected all season long.
Book an appointment at Anna Pharmacy for your annual flu jab. Our qualified pharmacists will guide you through the NHS flu jab schedule, check your eligibility, and ensure you are protected before flu season peaks.
Stay one step ahead this winter — plan your flu vaccination early and enjoy peace of mind knowing your immunity is ready when you need it most.
FAQs
1. When is the best time to get my flu jab in the UK?
The best time to get your flu jab is between late September and early December. This timing allows your body to build up immunity before the flu season peaks in winter. You can still get vaccinated later in the season if you miss this window, but earlier is better for stronger protection.
2. How long before flu season should I get the flu vaccine?
You should aim to get the flu vaccine two to three weeks before flu viruses start circulating widely. This gives your body enough time to produce antibodies that protect you throughout the peak flu months.
3. Can I get my flu jab after December?
Yes, you can still get your flu jab after December. The flu virus continues to circulate until March, so late vaccination still provides useful protection. However, getting it earlier ensures you are covered before exposure risk increases.
4. When does the NHS flu jab schedule usually start?
The NHS flu jab schedule typically begins in early September, with priority appointments offered first to older adults, pregnant women, and people with long-term conditions.
5. Can I get my flu jab and COVID-19 booster at the same time?
Yes, you can have your flu jab and COVID-19 booster during the same appointment if both are available. This approach is safe and helps save time while ensuring maximum protection ahead of winter illnesses.
6. Is there a difference in timing for children’s flu vaccines?
Yes. Children usually receive the nasal spray flu vaccine, which is quick and needle-free. The best time for children to get vaccinated is in early autumn, ideally between October and November, before flu activity increases.