Published on Monday 24 November 2025
Residents across Bournemouth Poole and Christchurch are being urged to book their flu vaccines.
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council is working with health colleagues to encourage people who haven’t had their flu vaccines to do so.
The best way to stay protected from flu is to get vaccinated.
Lots of residents can get a free flu jab such as:
- Residents aged 65 or over (including those who will be 65 by 31 March 2026)
- Pregnant women
- 2-3 year olds
- School aged children – delivery from School Nursing team
- 6 months- 65 years old with a long-term health condition
- Live in a care home
- Are the main carer for an older or disabled person, or receive a carer's allowance – unpaid carers included
- Live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- Frontline health and social care workers
Parents and carers of children aged two and three can book their child for a free flu vaccine. The vaccine is a nasal spray with no needles involved.
Getting a flu vaccine for two and three year-olds has become even easier this year as vaccines are being offered in local pharmacies for the first time making getting a vaccine even more accessible.
Everyone eligible for the flu vaccine can either contact the GP, pharmacy or attend a local vaccination clinic. Information about community clinics can be found by visiting: https://staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations/
All primary school children and some secondary school children are eligible for the flu nasal spray vaccination this year, which is usually given at school. Information about school immunisations can be found by visiting: www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/schoolageimms
Cllr David Brown, BCP Council’s Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing said: “Flu is an extremely nasty virus and can lead to hospitalisation. It is much more than just a cold.
“The best way to get protected against flu is by getting your flu vaccine.
“By getting the vaccine you are protecting your friends, family and work colleagues and keeping communities healthy.”
Residents over 75 years old, or six months to 74 years old with a weakened immune system will also be entitled to a free covid-19 vaccine.
More information about the flu and flu and covid vaccines can be found via: https://staywelldorset.nhs.uk/vaccinations/