Publish date: 24 November 2025
More than half of eligible people in Lancashire and South Cumbria have yet to take up the offer of a free flu vaccination this winter.
In the run-up to Christmas, the local NHS is urging those who have been putting off their jab to come forward and be vaccinated.
As the vaccine typically takes two weeks to be fully effective, now is the time to get protected to avoid flu and to protect those around you over the festive period.
Carole McCann, chief nurse for the vaccination programme in Lancashire and South Cumbria, said: “We understand that most people are extremely busy at this time of year, especially as we approach Christmas, so it’s not always easy to make time to get vaccinated.
“However, it is also the time of year where flu spreads the most – even more so when friends and families are gathering together to celebrate. So we’re saying to those people who are eligible but for whatever reason haven’t got round to it, go and get vaccinated to help your loved ones and ensure you have the best possible protection against flu.”
The flu vaccine is recommended for people at higher risk of getting seriously ill from flu.
You can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
- have certain long-term health conditions
- are pregnant
- live in a care home
- are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
Frontline health and social care workers can also get a flu vaccine through their employer.
The NHS in Lancashire and South Cumbria is making it as easy as possible for people to get their jab – you can simply contact your GP surgery to book a vaccination appointment, or book an appointment at a pharmacy online or in the NHS App (if you're aged 18 or over).
There is also a vaccine van making stops around the region.
Visit www.lancashireandsouthcumbria.icb.nhs.uk/covidvaccinations to find your nearest drop-in event. No appointments are needed.
