Flu vaccine reminder for people living with diabetes

The seasonal flu vaccination offered every year through the NHS to help protect people at risk of getting seriously ill from flu.

People living with diabetes are reminded to book their seasonal flu vaccine.

Most people who are eligible for a free flu vaccine will be able to get the vaccine from 7th October.

The flu vaccination is available to people living with diabetes as the long-term health condition is classed as putting people at a higher risk of further complications, should they develop flu symptoms.

Flu vaccination is important because, while flu is unpleasant for most people, it can be dangerous and even life threatening for some people, particularly those with certain health conditions, including diabetes.

The best time to have your flu vaccine is in the autumn or early winter before flu starts spreading.

You can have the NHS flu vaccine at your GP surgery; a pharmacy offering the service – if you are aged 18 or over; some maternity services if you are pregnant. You might also be offered the flu vaccine at a hospital appointment.

If you are eligible for a free flu vaccine, you can book an appointment at your GP surgery.

You can also book online to get a flu vaccine from a pharmacy that offers it on the NHS. Some pharmacies may also offer walk-in NHS flu vaccination.

You may also receive an invitation to get vaccinated, but you do not have to wait for this before booking an appointment.

Everyone who is eligible for the free flu vaccine will be able to get it.

For more information read the NHS guidance on flu vaccination here