Yes, you can have your flu jab at Bowland Pharmacy in Wythenshawe from 1 October, free on the NHS if you are eligible or privately if you are not, and you can either book a time or walk in. The NHS flu jab is free this autumn if you are 65 or over, aged 18 to 64 with certain long-term conditions, pregnant, a carer, or in one of the other groups below. If you are not eligible, a private flu vaccination is £25 on our price list. This guide is for adults.
Looking to book? Choose a time on our flu vaccination page, or walk in from 1 October. We are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm.
Who gets a free NHS flu jab in autumn 2026
The national flu letter for 2026 to 2027 says there are no changes to the main eligible groups this season. The NHS website says you can get the free NHS flu vaccine if you:
- are aged 65 or over, including if you will be 65 by 31 March 2027
- are aged 18 to 64 and 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 carer’s allowance
- live with someone who has a weakened immune system
- are experiencing homelessness or staying in a homeless hostel or night shelter
The long-term conditions include asthma that needs a steroid inhaler or tablets, COPD, heart disease, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, some conditions of the brain or nerves, a weakened immune system, spleen problems, a learning disability, and a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above. The homelessness group, for people aged 16 and over, was added to the programme from 1 October 2026. If you are not sure whether your condition counts, ask our pharmacist or your GP surgery.
Frontline health and social care workers should get the vaccine through their employer. Some social care staff with no employer scheme, such as people working for a registered care home or home care provider, can have it free at a pharmacy instead.
When the NHS flu jab starts this year
Most eligible adults can have the NHS flu jab from 1 October 2026. If you are pregnant, the NHS says you can be vaccinated from 1 September 2026, for example through your maternity service or GP surgery. At Bowland Pharmacy, flu jabs start on 1 October each year.
The national flu letter explains the October start for adults: protection from the vaccine fades over time, and flu usually peaks in December or January. The aim is for most eligible people to be vaccinated by the end of November, but the jab is still offered after that. The vaccine usually takes up to 14 days to work.
Who can pay for a private flu jab
If you are not in an NHS group, you can still have the flu vaccination privately with us. You do not need a referral from your GP. Before the jab, the pharmacist checks it is suitable for you.
How much a private flu jab costs at Bowland Pharmacy
Our price list shows “Flu Vaccination (Private)” at £25. Prices are subject to change, so check the list before you come.
Can you walk in, or do you need to book?
Both work. Our flu vaccination page says you can book a slot or come in as a walk-in from 1 October. The visit takes around 15 minutes. If you cannot find a booking time that suits you, call us on 0161 998 7114.
If you are 18 or over and eligible, the NHS also lets you book an NHS flu appointment online or in the NHS App now, for appointments from 1 October 2026.
Allergies, feeling unwell and other vaccines
The NHS says you cannot have it only if you have had a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to a previous dose or to an ingredient of the vaccine. Some flu vaccines contain egg protein, so tell the pharmacist if you have an egg allergy. If you have a high temperature, wait until you feel better.
You can have the flu jab at the same time as other vaccines, such as the COVID-19 and shingles vaccines. It is not usually given at the same time as the RSV vaccine, unless a doctor or nurse thinks it is needed. Our post on the COVID vaccine in Wythenshawe this autumn explains who gets that one free.
Side effects of the flu jab
The NHS says the most common side effects are mild and get better within 1 to 2 days. They include pain or soreness where the injection was given, a slightly raised temperature and an aching body. A severe allergic reaction is very rare, and the person vaccinating you is trained to treat it immediately. The injected flu vaccines used in the UK do not contain live flu viruses, so they cannot give you flu. You may still catch flu after the jab, but it is likely to be milder and not last as long.
Common questions
Can I walk in for a flu jab?
Yes. From 1 October you can walk in to Bowland Pharmacy, 52 Bowland Road, Wythenshawe, Manchester M23 1JX, or book a time if you prefer.
How do I book a flu jab near me in Wythenshawe?
Choose a time on our booking page, or call 0161 998 7114.
How much is a private flu jab?
£25 at Bowland Pharmacy, as shown on our price list. It is free if you are eligible on the NHS.
Is the flu jab free at a pharmacy?
For adults, yes: if you are 18 or over and in one of the NHS groups, a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination can give it free. Bowland Pharmacy gives NHS flu jabs to eligible patients. If you are not eligible, you can pay for a private one.
Important health information
This article is general information only. It does not diagnose a condition, recommend a vaccine or medicine, or replace an individual assessment by a pharmacist, GP or specialist. For a life-threatening emergency, call 999. For urgent medical help that is not life-threatening, use NHS 111.
Sources
Official guidance checked 23 September 2026:
- NHS: Flu vaccine
- GOV.UK: National flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter
- GOV.UK: Amendment to the national flu immunisation programme 2026 to 2027 letter
Published by Bowland Pharmacy. Written to NHS and UKHSA guidance. Superintendent Pharmacist: Ahmed Al-Liabi (GPhC 2208502).
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Book your consultation with Bowland Pharmacy in Wythenshawe. Same-day and next-day appointments usually available.
