Croydon’s health leaders are urging residents to book their flu vaccinations before the winter weather takes hold.
Vulnerable people and those more at risk of getting ill during the colder months should get their free flu jabs now as Croydon’s winter vaccination programme gets under way.
London’s BIG WEEK 2026 campaign runs from 9–16 November, and eligible residents will have more opportunities to get their free NHS flu vaccine during this time.
Flu spreads more easily in late autumn and winter as we spend more time together indoors and catching the virus can cause serious illness. While many people recover at home, flu can lead to severe complications and hospitalisation.
If vaccinated people do catch flu, they are more likely to experience milder symptoms, recover more quickly and avoid serious complications or hospital treatment.
Residents are being reminded that the flu virus changes every year and that protection from previous vaccinations fades over time. Getting vaccinated annually remains the best way to protect against the strains most likely to circulate this winter.
The NHS offers free flu vaccinations to people at greatest risk of becoming seriously ill from flu, including:
- People aged 65 and over
- Pregnant women
- People with certain long-term health conditions
- Residents in care homes
- Carers
- Frontline health and social care workers
- Adults receiving social care support
Eligible residents can book a flu vaccination appointment through the NHS App, via their GP practice, participating pharmacies, or by calling 119.
“We urge residents to book their flu jab as soon as possible. Flu is not just a bad cold; the virus can be extremely serious for certain groups of people. It’s best not to delay and protect yourself and your loved ones before the temperature further dips.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Ruth Hutchinson, Croydon’s Director of Public Health, said: “Getting vaccinated every year is essential because the flu virus is constantly changing. The vaccine is designed to protect against the strains most likely to be circulating in our communities. It only takes a few minutes to get your jab and have protection throughout the winter.”
Chief Medical Officer, Dr Subhro Banerjee, at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust, said: “Every year we see the impact that flu has on local health services. The NHS has already faced significant demand, and we want to do everything we can to keep the people of Croydon well and reduce pressure on hospitals and GP services this winter.”
For more information about flu vaccinations and eligibility, visit the NHS website.
The Council’s website has further health and wellbeing information to support residents during the winter months.
